Parallel Initiatives: Cbd'S Ecologically Or Biologically Significant Areas (Ebsas) And Fao'S Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (Vmes) Criteria And Processes

This chapter first compares the criteria adopted by the CBD for identifying areas that are ecologically or biologically significant and by FAO for areas that are vulnerable marine ecosystems relative to deep-sea fishing. It traces their parallel histories of development and describes experiences with initial application of the criteria, sometimes in the same marine areas. The many similarities and some important differences in the pathways to development of the criteria and their application are reviewed. Finally, some key lessons are extracted from this review, highlighting opportunities for greater coherence in planning and actions between fisheries management agencies and institutions engaged with the conservation of marine biodiversity.