Social networks and information flow: Building the ground for collaborative marine conservation planning in Portofino Marine Protected Area (MPA)

Abstract

There is an increasing understanding that the complexity of most ecosystems is matched by equally complex social settings; hence governance aspects, social and ecological systems should be considered together (Ostrom, 1990). Stakeholder engagement is a continuous learning process that increases social capital, deepens mutual understanding and promotes the exploration of possible solutions, facilitating cooperation in decision-making (Hogg et al., 2013, Pomeroy and Douvere, 2008). Particularly in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) participation is essential for the generation of information, the compliance with common rules and the mitigation of conflicts on the use of marine resources (Folke et al., 2005). Although widely acknowledged by several EU Directives, stakeholder participation is a complicated process that involves expensive and time-consuming procedures, which often results in a limited audience and engagement potential (Pomeroy and Douvere, 2008). Furthermore, the heterogeneity of groups and the emergence of personal interests may pose conflicts or power inequalities capable of influencing perceptions and decreasing the efficiency of policy interventions (Prell et al., 2009). To achieve successful stakeholder participation and adaptive co-management of resources two fundamental components should be considered: the participation of representatives of all actors' perspectives and interests influencing or being influenced by decisions, and the provision of adequate information and tools that will support communication and mutual understanding among stakeholders (Bodin et al., 2006, Markantonatou et al., 2013a).