OCEANIC PARTICIPATORY PROCESS
Given the diversity of scientific data, distinct groups of stakeholders, and socio-economic impacts to be considered in conservation scenarios, two participatory processes were conducted, focusing on oceanic and coastal areas.
1. OCEANIC PROCESS
Focused on the areas between 6 and 200 nautical miles from the coast.
2. COASTAL PROCESS
Focused on the areas between the coastline and 6 nautical miles.
The boundary of the "6 nautical miles" was based on existing legislation, which divides the type of human activities that take place within and beyond the 6 nautical miles, given that users of these two areas are different. Thus, the 6 nautical miles were accepted as a boundary to differentiate the coastal process from the oceanic process.
MEETINGS
In this context, acting with the conviction that the commitment to protect 30% of the ocean is only possible with the involvement of marine users, Blue Azores organized 43 meetings with a total of 17 representatives from different sectors, including associations of maritime-tourist operators, maritime transport, fishermen's associations, non-governmental environmental organizations, government departments and authorities.
29
mid-term meetings
The Oceanic Participatory Process included
19
Months
17
Entities involved
43
Meetings
9
General meetings
30
Interim meetings
4
Fish force meetings
27
Meetings attended by the fishing sector
OCEANIC PARTICIPATORY PROCESS:
TIMELINE
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MAIN OBJECTIVES OF THE MEETINGS
1. Create a unified vision.
2. Present the scientific data available in the region, as a basis for the priority marine areas to be protected.
3. Present, discuss and approve conservation objectives.
4.Create a collaborative design with everyone involved.
5. Identify complementary measures and challenges.
DESIGN OF THE PROPOSED MPA NETWORK
1. After 8 general meetings, the consensual network among interested parties did not meet 2 of the 17 agreed conservation objectives.
2. In order to meet these objectives, the minimum necessary areas were added, taking into account the minimization of the impact on fishing activity.
3. On June 29, 2023, the proposal to review the Network of Marine Protected Areas of the Azores (RAMPA) was presented.
4. This proposal was submitted to public consultation between July 24th and September 15th, 2023.
ENTITIES INVOLVED
Stakeholders involved in this participatory process, called the Working Group, included the following entities:
