Editorial: using ecological models to support and shape environmental policy decisions

Ecological and socio-ecological models have been recognized to be essential for addressing this issue. These tools can provide an integrative image of key mechanisms and processes at different scales and can be used to explore the consequences of alternative policies or management scenarios. Such models have long been used and developed in academic and research settings, but not operationally. More recently they have been used as heuristic tools for policy and management, e.g., to understand general patterns in ecosystem structure and functioning, or for qualitative assessment of the impact of single or multiple pressures on selected species/functional groups. These types of models have a great potential to directly underpin policies and management decisions, and this potential is beginning to be realized. This Research Topic showcases recent advancements in modeling tools to directly support environmental management and policies for the sustainable use of coastal and ocean resources. The geographic scope covers coasts, enclosed seas and open oceans, and it highlights the types of models currently being used, the policies and environmental aspects covered, as well as gaps and actions needed to better link models and policies for improving the management and the restoration of our oceans.

PIRODDI Chiara;  HEYMANS Johanna J.;  MACIAS MOY Diego;  GREGOIRE Marilaure;  TOWNSEND Howard; 

2022-02-28

FRONTIERS MEDIA SA

JRC127683

2296-7745 (online),   

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2021.815313/full,    https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC127683,   

10.3389/fmars.2021.815313 (online),