AQUACULTURE ZONING, SITE SELECTION AND AREA MANAGEMENT UNDER THE ECOSYSTEM APPROACH TO AQUACULTURE  

The paper describes a planning and management framework comprised of three interlinked processes: zoning, site selection and the design of aquaculture management areas in accordance with the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, and the ecosystem approach to aquaculture (EAA). Common problems associated with spatially unplanned aquaculture development are highlighted as well as the opportunities provided through implementing a spatial planning process under an EAA so as to ensure aquaculture's orderly and sustainable development. By taking into account local and national social, economic, environmental and governance considerations, an EAA aims to effectively integrate aquaculture into local planning, while at the same time allowing for the sustainable management of all aquaculture operations. Some case studies from around the world are presented to highlight the process and steps for spatial planning and area management in aquaculture including a general description of how models and spatial tools, such as geographic information and remote sensing are being used by decision-makers. This paper calls for pragmatic, systematic and flexible planning and management, which may need some considerable inputs of participation, persistence, adequate funding and good governance to create an environment conducive to sustainable aquaculture development. The spatial planning and area management processes under the EAA covers the whole range of aquaculture practices and environments and it can be implemented in areas where aquaculture is newly planned or where aquaculture has already been developed.