Marine Conservation Biology Institute

Website:  www.mcbi.org
Grant Awarded: $500,000

This Arcadia grant is helping the Marine Conservation Biology Institute (MCBI) to promote marine spatial planning (MSP) within the Obama Administration’s National Ocean Policy.

An MSP framework will be key to advancing the landmark policy that sets out to radically improve the way the US manages its waters.

MSP is a strategic way to manage marine ecosystems by area, unlike the current system whereby different government agencies manage different user groups.

The process identifies spaces that are appropriate for different uses (both industrial and non-industrial), separating incompatible users to ensure that the environment and marine life are protected.

The grant has enabled MCBI to work with Federal agencies in creating an ecosystem-based framework based on the MSP model within a time period set by the Obama Administration.

It will also enable MCBI, in partnership with non-governmental organisations and universities, to encourage Congress to pass comprehensive MSP legislation.