Protection Of Marine Ecosystems Research Articles

A Comparison of new and age-old approaches treating microplastics in the marine environment

In recent years, microplastic pollution in the ocean has become a new environmental threat, posing a serious potential threat to marine ecology. Due to its high degradation resistance and bioaccumulation, it is an urgent and critical issue for the environment. Unfortunately, current technologies for removing, recycling, or degrading microplastics are not sufficient to eliminate them. The main sources of microplastics (MPs) in the ocean are ocean drift inputs, river inputs, fishing and shipping activities, microplastic emissions from human settlements, and atmospheric migration. Microplastics may pose a threat to marine life and affect the stability of marine ecosystems. Therefore, it is urgent to further study governance methods and analysis processes, and strengthen the source control of marine microplastic pollution. This study aims to analyze and discuss different methods for treating marine microplastics, analyze their respective advantages and limitations, and evaluate their feasibility and effectiveness in practical applications. The study ultimately emphasized the importance of effective management of marine microplastics, which is crucial for protecting marine ecosystems and human health. Through a comprehensive analysis of physical, chemical, and biological methods, this study provides valuable insights for marine environmental management and research institutions, thereby promoting the development and application of effective management technologies to achieve sustainable environmental outcomes.

Different recovery patterns of the surviving bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis based on transcriptome profiling exposed to spherical or fibrous polyethylene microplastics

Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive pollutants exuded from anthropogenic activities and ingested by animals in different ecosystems. This transcriptomic profiling study aimed to explore the impact of polyethylene MPs on Mytilus galloprovincialis, an ecologically significant bivalve species. The toxicity of two MPs types was found to result in increased cellular stress when exposed to MPs up to 14 days. Moreover, recovery mechanisms were also observed in progress. Mussels exhibited different gene expression patterns and molecular regulation in response to cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) stress. The transcriptome analysis demonstrated a notable hindrance in cilia movement as MPs ingested through gills. Subsequent entry resulted in a significant disruption in the cytoskeletal organization, cellular projection, and cilia beat frequency. On day 4 (D4), signal transduction and activation of apoptosis evidenced the signs of toxic consequences. Mussels exposed to spherical MPs shown significant recovery on day 14 (D14), characterized by the upregulation of anti-apoptotic genes and antioxidant genes. The expression of P53 and BCL2 genes was pivotal in controlling the apoptotic process and promoting cell survival. Mussels exposed to fibrous MPs displayed a delayed cell survival effect. However, the elevated physiological stress due to fibrous MPs resulted in energy transfer by compensatory regulation of metabolic processes to expedite cellular recovery. These observations highlighted the intricate and varied reaction of cell survival mechanisms in mussels during recovering toxicity. This study provides critical evidence of the ecotoxicological impacts of two different MPs and emphasizes the environmental risks they pose to aquatic ecosystems. Our conclusion has shed light on the detrimental effects of MPs on M. galloprovincialis and emphasize the need for more stringent regulations to protect marine ecosystems.

Protection pattern and driving mechanism of typical marine ecosystems: a case study of China-ASEAN countries

The protection pattern of typical marine ecosystems is an overall summary of the regional marine ecosystem protection, indicating the protection status of typical marine ecosystems. The coastal waters of China and ASEAN countries have a highly diverse range of ecosystem types, including mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. The need to protect these ecosystems is urgent, but establishing marine protected areas often involves conflicts with stakeholders highly dependent on these ecosystems. By constructing an analysis model of the protection pattern and driving mechanisms of typical marine ecosystems, with a focus on the China-ASEAN region, this study aimed to analyze the characteristics of typical marine ecosystems protection patterns in China-ASEAN, evaluate the current protection status of these ecosystems, discuss the driving factors, and derive a regression function to clarify the quantitative relationship between the protection pattern and driving factors of typical marine ecosystems in the China-ASEAN region. The results indicate that there are four main driving factors influencing the protection pattern of typical marine ecosystems in China-ASEAN countries. The most significant driving factor is the Natural Geographic and Resource Factor, followed by Urbanization, Industrial Structure, and Population Size and GDP Factor. Among these, the Natural Geographic and Resource Factor and the Industrial Structure Factor have a positive impact, while the others have a negative impact. In the future, it is crucial to fully consider the diversity and distribution of marine ecosystems to promote joint efforts among China-ASEAN countries in protecting marine ecosystems through international cooperation.

Analisis Distribusi Dana Bantuan Perum Perumnas dalam Mendukung Tujuan Pembangunan Berkelanjutan (TPB)

Organizations and companies as integral elements in society are faced with the responsibility to understand and manage the impact of their operations on the environment, social and economy. The company program, especially BUMN, including Perum Perumnas, which supports the TPB, is the Social and Environmental Responsibility Program (TJSL). This research aims to analyze the role of Perum Perumnas in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (TPB). This research method is data analysis research or company reports, especially the Perum Perumnas sustainability report for 2021-2022. The results of this research are that Perum Perumnas in 2021-2022 contributed to 10 of the 17 TPB. The order of cumulative TPB aid funds for 2021-2022, from largest to smallest, is TPB 16 (Peace, Justice and Resilient Institutions), TPB 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), TPB 6 (Clean Water and Decent Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Human Settlements), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 2 (No Hunger), SDG 7 (Clean and Affordable Energy), SDG 14 (Protecting Marine Ecosystems), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and TPB 10 (Reducing Inequality). The trend in the distribution pattern of Perum Perumnas TPB assistance areas in 2021-2022 follows the project locations handled by Perum Perumnas with the distribution of Perum Perumnas TPB assistance areas still focused on Java Island.

Analysis of two coastal pelagic fish species (Sardinella aurita and Scomber colias) for early detection of the impact of anthropogenic metals released into the marine environment

In this study, the concentrations of several metals (Al, Cd,Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Zn) were analyzed in two species of fish (S. aurita and S. colias) in different years, including the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The highest values of metals such as Al were found in the years 2019 8.661±0.434 mg/kg in S. colias and 6.487±1.485 mg/kg in S. aurita, and the year with the lowest concentration was 2020; 7.5±0.146 mg/kg in S. colias and 4.405±0.823 mg/kg in S. aurita, this pattern of concentrations occurs similarly for the other metals studied. Significant differences were found in the concentrations of these metals in both types of fish over the years. In general, metal concentrations were higher in 2019 and lower in 2020, coinciding with the period of reduced human activity during the pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced human activity led to a decrease in metal pollution in the marine environment, which had a positive impact on fish. However, it was noted that these effects may be temporary and may reverse when normal economic activities resume. These two fish species are sensitive indicators of metal pollution in the marine environment and it is important to take measures to reduce the release of contaminating metals into the environment. The need to adopt sustainable tourism practices and stricter environmental regulations to protect marine ecosystems is also mentioned.

Application and progress of water colour remote sensing technology in monitoring chlorophyll concentration changes in seawater

This paper provides an in-depth discussion on the application and progress of water colour remote sensing technology in monitoring changes in chlorophyll concentration in seawater. The hydrochromatic remote sensing technique uses spectral data acquired by remote sensing satellites and airborne platforms to monitor and analyse the distribution of marine chlorophyll, which is of great significance for understanding and protecting marine ecosystems. The article first introduces the basic principles and development history of this technology, and then discusses in detail its applications in global ocean monitoring, including resource management, environmental assessment, and ecological protection. In the discussion, we highlight the advantages of water colour remote sensing technology in providing large-scale and efficient ocean monitoring, while also pointing out the challenges it faces in terms of data accuracy, atmospheric disturbance handling and algorithm development. In particular, these challenges are gradually being overcome with the application of advanced computational techniques, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, resulting in significant improvements in monitoring accuracy and efficiency. Finally, this paper looks at the future direction of water colour remote sensing technology, including technological innovation, data integration and interdisciplinary collaboration, highlighting the potential value of this technology in addressing global climate change and marine environmental protection. Through this comprehensive analysis, we have gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the important role of water colour remote sensing technology in global ocean monitoring and management.

Megafauna: the ignored bioturbators

Bioturbation is a process caused by animals that move particles and water in sediments. This influences gas and solute exchange, and organic matter concentrations through the sediment column. Bioturbators play an important role in biogeochemistry and ecosystem functioning. To date, bioturbation research has focused on the invertebrate macrofauna present in the sediment. However, many larger marine animals (e.g. rays, sharks, whales) display foraging behaviours that disturb the sediment and thus potentially affect sediment biogeochemistry. We propose a categorization of vertebrate megafauna bioturbation based on their reworking behaviours, classifying them as ‘pit creators’, ‘bulldozers’, and ‘trench diggers’. These categories underscore the diversity of impacts on sediment structure and biogeochemical processes. The need to investigate the topic comes from the limited knowledge surrounding the extent to which sediment biogeochemistry is influenced by megafauna activities. Additionally, the declining population of vertebrate megafauna due to climate change, overfishing, bycatch, and habitat loss and modification makes discerning the functional roles of these animals in the sediment a pressing issue. Understanding the ecological implications of megafauna bioturbation will be critical to support conservation strategies and protect marine ecosystems and the animals that shape them.

Analysis of long-term changes in algal bloom pattern and their association with Ocean, atmosphere, and land-based processes across the northern Indian Ocean

Algal blooms are global phenomena in marine and fresh waters. An understanding of the impacts of climate change and anthropogenic activities on marine algal blooms is essential for protecting marine ecosystems. We have studied the long-term changes in the spatial patterns of algal blooms over the northern Indian Ocean and assessed the influence of the ocean, atmosphere, and land-based processes on them. We have analyzed multi-source satellite data (2003 – 2020) of various parameters such as algal concentration, temperature, salinity, sea level, particulate organic carbon, precipitation, wind speed, and river discharge on an open-source cloud computing platform. The seasonality of variables is assessed using a harmonic model, and their spatial trend is estimated using the non-parametric Mann-Kendall test. The spatial relationship between various geophysical parameters and algal bloom concentration is assessed by the cross-correlation test, and the prediction is done using a multivariate autoregression model. Results suggest that each variable exhibits distinguishable seasonal patterns. Algal bloom duration showed a significant increase over time. However, algal bloom coverage showed a significant decline in the coastal waters in all seasons except post-monsoon. The cross-correlation test unveils that lower temperatures, salinity, and sea level promote algal bloom occurrences in coastal waters rather than open waters. Furthermore, the statistical model with a time lag of 2 months shows better performance for prediction of bloom intensity (r2 = 0.86).

Advancing Sustainable Marine Exploration: Highly Efficient Photonic Radar for Underwater Navigation Systems under the Impact of Different Salinity Levels

The exploration of underwater environments for applications like environmental monitoring, scientific research, and surveillance has propelled the significance of underwater wireless navigation. Light waves have emerged as a promising solution, offering the potential to achieve the required data rates and propagation speeds. However, underwater optical wireless navigation faces challenges, particularly limited range. This research investigates a novel FMCW (frequency-modulated continuous wave)-based photonic radar system’s efficacy in detecting underwater vehicles across diverse salinity levels and distances. Numerical simulation evaluations reveal distinct signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) and detected power peaks corresponding to varying salinity levels, demonstrating the system’s sensitivity. At 5 g/L salinity, the detected power peaked at −95 dBm, decreasing to −105 dBm at 15 g/L. SNR analysis indicates robust detection within a 4 m range, with challenges emerging at extended ranges and higher salinity. Despite these challenges, the system shows promise for near-range underwater navigation, contributing to sustainable marine exploration by enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of underwater monitoring systems. This advancement aligns with the goals of sustainable development by supporting the protection of marine ecosystems, promoting scientific understanding of underwater environments, and aiding in the sustainable management of marine resources.

Climate Change and Ocean Acidification: Unraveling the Complex Interactions and Implications for Marine Ecosystems

Purpose: The study aims to investigate the intricate relationship between ocean acidification and climate change, providing insights into their impacts on marine ecosystems. It seeks to identify sources of greenhouse gases, assess reef vulnerability, and analyze temperature changes' effects on marine biodiversity.
 Methodology: Quantitative research methods are employed, utilizing data from Bangladesh, the USA, India, and the UK. Dynamic patterns in coral reef health, ocean acidification, greenhouse gas emissions, and marine ecosystem health are assessed between 2019 and 2023. Qualitative analysis supplements the quantitative findings, enhancing understanding of climate change's impacts on marine ecosystems and mitigation strategies.
 Findings: The study reveals clear patterns in the countries studied, emphasizing the urgency for continuous monitoring and protection of marine ecosystems. It provides insights into how climate change affects marine ecosystems, triggers ocean acidification, and identifies sources of greenhouse gas emissions. The research underscores the necessity for collaborative efforts to address climate change impacts and promote ecosystem resilience.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: The study contributes to a better understanding of the complex dynamics between ocean acidification, climate change, and marine ecosystems. It offers valuable insights to inform conservation initiatives, policy decisions, and strategies aimed at mitigating adverse impacts on marine species. By highlighting the importance of collective action, the research advocates for a comprehensive approach to address climate change's effects on ecosystems and oceans, fostering resilience and sustainability.

HyFish: hydrological factor fusion for prediction of fishing effort distribution with VMS dataset

Predicting fishing effort distribution is crucial for guiding fisheries management in developing effective strategies and protecting marine ecosystems. This task requires a deep understanding of how various hydrological factors, such as water temperature, surface height, salinity, and currents influence fishing activities. However, there are significant challenges in designing the prediction model. Firstly, how hydrological factors affect fishing effort distributions remains unquantified. Secondly, the prediction model must effectively integrate the spatial and temporal dynamics of fishing behaviors, a task that shows analytical difficulties. In this study, we first quantify the correlation between hydrological factor fields and fishing effort distributions through spatiotemporal analysis. Building on the insights from this analysis, we develop a deep-learning model designed to forecast the daily distribution of fishing effort for the upcoming week. The proposed model incorporates residual networks to extract features from both the fishing effort distribution and the hydrological factor fields, thus addressing the spatial limits of fishing activity. It also employs Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks to manage the temporal dynamics of fishing activity. Furthermore, an attention mechanism is included to capture the importance of various hydrological factors. We apply the approach to the VMS dataset from 1,899 trawling fishing vessels in the East China Sea from September 2015 to May 2017. The dataset from September 2015 to May 2016 is used for correlation analysis and training the prediction model, while the dataset from September 2016 to May 2017 is employed to evaluate the prediction accuracy. The prediction error ratio for each day of the upcoming week range is only 5.6% across all weeks from September 2016 to May 2017. HyFish, notable for its low prediction error ratio, will serve as a versatile tool in fisheries management for developing sustainable practices and in fisheries research for providing quantitative insights into fishing resource dynamics and assessing ecological risks related to fishing activities.

A Comprehensive Review of Climatic Threats and Adaptation of Marine Biodiversity

Oceans play a vital role in socioeconomic and environmental development by supporting activities such as tourism, recreation, and food provision while providing important ecosystem services. However, concerns have been raised about the threat that climate change poses to the functions of oceans. This study examines the impacts, threats, and adaptation strategies of climate change and marine biodiversity. Using bibliometric and secondary data analysis, this study determines that climate change leads to rising sea temperatures, marine heatwaves, acidification, and increasing sea levels. These factors undermine the significance of ocean ecosystem services. This study also identifies the significant risks posed by climate change to marine species diversity and distribution, primarily through habitat degradation and shifts in species ranges. Scholarly focus on these challenges has grown over time, focusing on adaptation strategies and building resilience to mitigate adverse impacts. This study critically evaluates various adaptation measures, including nature-based and human-based solutions such as habitat restoration, policy and legislative frameworks, and their potential to protect marine ecosystems. It provides detailed discussions on the effectiveness of adaptation strategies such as marine protected areas (MPAs), mangrove and coral reef restoration, and species range shifts. This review also emphasises the significance of indigenous knowledge systems and community participation in marine conservation efforts to achieve holistic and sustainable management. It highlights the need for enhanced international cooperation and a transdisciplinary approach to address the complex interplay between climate change and marine biodiversity. Additionally, this study suggests that funding for research gaps and conservation can be secured through tourism revenue and other climate funding mechanisms.

Value for money: a cost-effectiveness analysis of microplastic analytics in seawater

The availability of many microplastic analysis methods is challenging for researchers and policy makers when tasked with choosing optimal methods for their research question and a given budget. In this study, a cost-effectiveness analysis of methods for microplastic analysis in seawater was performed using survey data acquired from experts. Total analysis cost per method was determined accounting for labour and equipment costs, while method effectiveness was scored based on their ability to confirm the plastic nature of particles, their minimum detectable particle size, and other parameters. Results were validated and discussed during two workshops with scientists and policy makers. The resulting predictive tools allow to identify the most cost-effective methods for specific scenarios, and their associated cost. They mark an important step towards a more effective and informed approach to monitoring and managing microplastic pollution in the marine environment, ultimately contributing to the protection of marine ecosystems and human health.

Navigating through ocean literacy gaps: an analysis of elementary school textbooks in Croatian education

Ocean literacy (OL), defined as understanding the ocean’s influence on us and our influence on the ocean, is crucial for protecting marine ecosystems and resources. This study analysed the integration of ocean literacy principles (OLP) and concepts in Croatian elementary education. The content of textbooks for grades 1-8 across subjects like Nature, Biology, Geography, Chemistry, and Physics was examined. In total, 7,520 pages across 55 textbooks were analysed. The results revealed that, although all seven OLPs were present, numerous concepts were absent or only partially addressed. Discrepancies with the recommended Ocean Literacy Scope and Sequence were identified, particularly in lower grades. The findings highlight gaps in incorporating ocean sciences topics into formal education. Enhanced inclusion of OL principles and concepts across subjects and grades would provide students with comprehensive knowledge about the ocean, empowering future generations to make informed decisions and take responsible actions regarding ocean sustainability and conservation. The findings highlight the necessity for collaboration among ocean scientists, educational specialists, and policymakers to incorporate OL into curricula and textbooks, thereby enhancing students’ understanding of ocean sciences.

What next for marine ecosystem management in Vietnam: assessment of coastal economy, climate change, and policy implication

Vietnam is a coastal country with a coastline stretching more than 3,260 km. Marine resources are important for the development of Vietnam. In Vietnamese seas, there are about 20 typical ecosystems spreading over 1 million square kilometers in the East Sea consisting of mangrove forests, coral reefs, lagoons, seagrasses in intertidal areas and estuaries, and living species in 155,000 hectares, 1,300 square kilometers, 500 square kilometers, 16,000 hectares, and 11,000 living species, respectively. At present, the impact of climate change, socio-economic development, and environmental pollution are considered as the main causes of degradation of Vietnam’s marine ecosystems. This paper presents and discusses the pressure of socio-economic activities including industry, tourism, marine transportation and services, aquaculture and fishery on marine ecosystems. In Vietnam, compared to the early 2000s a total of 12% of coral reefs, and 48% of other coral reefs are vulnerable to degradation. So far, about 100 species of marine life in Vietnam are at risk of being threatened due to over-exploitation and fishing. The seagrass-bed ecosystem is currently being degraded with only over 5,580 ha remaining. In some areas, such as Cat Ba, Ha Long, and Quang Nam, seagrass beds have almost no chance to recover naturally due to serious impacts from tourism and aquaculture activities. From the findings, orientations that aim at effective management and protection of marine ecosystems to cope with adverse impacts of anthropogenic activities, climate change, and the pressure of socioeconomic development were proposed.

The Impact of Offshore Drilling Activities on Marine Ecosystems

The article delves into the impact of offshore drilling on marine ecosystems, focusing on environmental concerns arising from pollutants, drilling waste, and oil spills. It highlights threats to marine biodiversity, habitat disruptions, and water pollution. The study aims to deepen our understanding of the complex relationship between offshore drilling and its environmental effects, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive assessment and mitigation. It explores regulatory frameworks, industry practices, and challenges in enforcing compliance, advocating for enhanced collaboration and monitoring systems to promote responsible offshore drilling and protect marine ecosystems.

National assessment on the status, trends and impacts of marine non-indigenous species for the European Union marine strategy framework directive

The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) of the European Union aims to enhance the protection of marine ecosystems by assessing Good Environmental Status using several descriptors. Descriptor 2 of the MSFD states that the status of marine non-indigenous species (NIS) should be assessed using specified criteria regarding newly introduced NIS, abundance, and spatial distribution of established NIS, as well as proportions of native species groups adversely altered due to NIS. The current study presents a national NIS indicator assessment for the six sub-basins associated with the Finnish marine waters. The study additionally aimed to develop a methodology to assess changes in native species communities over time. A new biodiversity index was created for this purpose by combining the Gini-Simpson index, and species and phyla richness into a Community Biodiversity Index (CBI). CBI was calculated to measure changes in biodiversity within the soft-bottom benthic communities of the study area, and correlation analyses were conducted between the index scores and NIS proportion. Overall, 34 NIS have been recorded from the Finnish marine waters by 2022, and more than half of them have arrived since 1992. Spatial distribution of three established non-indigenous taxa (Marenzelleria spp., Cercopagis pengoi and Neogobius melanostomus) has expanded during the latest assessment periods and nowadays cover most of the national marine waters. Meanwhile, abundance of Marenzelleria spp. in benthic communities has increased heavily in most sub-basins. The study outcomes indicated that NIS proportion correlated significantly with the CBI within the soft-bottom benthic communities. This correlation was significantly negative for the samples with a higher NIS proportion than the median, suggesting that when NIS became more dominant, biodiversity of the communities decreased. The current study provides an applicable method to evaluate changes in biodiversity for various species groups, and how to link them to changes in the distribution and abundance of established NIS. It can be concluded that the national biological monitoring program has severe temporal and spatial gaps, as the national monitoring data enabled the assessment on native species groups, adversely altered due to NIS to be completed only for one species group, soft-bottom macrozoobenthos. Most importantly, the study emphasised the crucial need for management actions to prevent further NIS introductions.

Impact of microplastics on human health and aquatic species

Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a pervasive environmental challenge, with significant implications for both marine ecosystems and human health. This study delves into the adverse effects of MPs, highlighting their physical, chemical, and biological impacts on marine life, particularly fish. These impacts include physical injury, oxidative stress, and altered immune responses, which can have cascading effects on marine biodiversity and ecosystem functionality. The review also underscores the risk MPs pose to humans through direct exposure, via consumption of contaminated seafood, inhalation, or dermal contact, potentially leading to oxidative stress, cytotoxic effects, and disturbances in immune function. By comprehensively examining existing research and identifying knowledge gaps, this study aims to underline the urgent need for targeted research strategies. These strategies should focus on elucidating the complex interactions between MPs and biological systems, assessing long-term health implications, and developing effective mitigation measures. Through detailed analysis of methodologies, results, and existing literature, this review aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted impact of microplastics, thereby guiding future research directions and informing policy decisions for the protection of marine ecosystems and human health.

The Persian Gulf and Oman Sea: Climate variability and trends inferred from satellite observations

The warming trend in the Indian Ocean since the mid-20th century, with a strong signature over the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea, has been recognized as indisputable evidence of anthropogenic global warming. Further amplified warming is predicted for the coming decades. Therefore, a climatological assessment over recent decades is essential for mitigating environmental disasters. A comprehensive overview of the climate mean-state and variability across this region is provided using satellite-derived sea surface temperature (SST), surface wind, and Chlorophyll-a concentration (Chl-a). With more signature over the northwest and center of the Gulf, SST and wind are closely connected in which summers with intensified winds are not dramatically warm. It supports the notion that summertime northwesterly winds in the Gulf protect marine ecosystems from severe warm anomalies. Except in the south of the Gulf, the SST and Chl-a are anti-correlated. Our finding suggests that the Indian Ocean Dipole cycles considerably affect SST and winds over the western and central portions of the Gulf and the southern sector of the Oman Sea. Our evaluation of regional SST trends indicates a heterogeneous regional warming, which implies a significant contribution of small-scale processes in SST changes. This widens the uncertainty in regional climate projections. Furthermore, locally measured temperatures in several intertidal zones depict pronounced diurnal variations missing in satellite images, highlighting the need for an observation network to assess the localized impacts of global warming on the intertidal biota.

Analysis of the Implementation of Marine Spatial Plans

The increasing pressure on marine ecosystems by various economic, social, and ecological activities has led to conflicts and a decline in the ecosystem's ability to provide marine goods. Marine spatial planning has become necessary for the coastal states to establish a more rational organization of marine space that integrates economic exploitation, social benefits, and marine environment protection. The beginnings of marine spatial planning date back to the 1970s, with successful initiatives in countries such as Australia, Ireland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Portugal. In southern Europe, initiatives like SHAPE in the Adriatic Sea discuss maritime boundaries and national jurisdictions, whereas in northern and central Europe, licensing requirements for wind energy and other marine activities play a significant role. Conflicts with maritime traffic, fisheries, and protected areas have prompted the initiation of marine spatial planning in Belgium and Germany. The multidisciplinary nature of marine spatial planning allows for the sustainable use of marine resources and the reduction of negative impacts on the environment. Conflicts can be minimized by considering the specific interests and spatial needs of various stakeholders, and the marine space can be utilized more efficiently. This paper examines the implementation of marine spatial plans across various levels, ranging from small national jurisdictions to large areas like Australia. The authors emphasize the significance of utilizing marine spatial plans as a basis for the development of marine spaces. By analysing the factors that define marine spaces and their activities, both present and future, conflicts can be prevented, and incompatible activities can be avoided in the same area. The findings highlight the importance of proactive planning to ensure the sustainable use of marine resources and the protection of marine ecosystems.