A New Approach to Management

Ecosystem-based management (EBM) is an integrated, science-based approach to the management of natural resources that aims to sustain the health, resilience and diversity of ecosystems while allowing for sustainable use by humans of the goods and services they provide.

Ecosystem-based management is an integrated approach to management that considers the entire ecosystem, linkages across systems and disciplines, and the cumulative impacts of different human sectors. Its aim is to sustain ecosystems in a healthy, productive and resilient condition so that they can provide the functions, goods and services that enrich and sustain human well-being. As such, ecosystem-based management necessarily incorporates biological, physical and human components, including social and economic systems. Learn about the ecosystem services the ocean provides>>

Marine systems are complex and management often happens with limited knowledge, particularly in relation to how our activities impact natural systems. Therefore management decisions are best made taking a precautionary approach, meaning, when in doubt, err on the side of conservation.

Management in Pncima will use an integrated approach. This means considering human uses and the impacts of those uses on the environment. An integrated approach to management is important because it considers the interactions between different activities, and their collective effects on the environment and on each other. In view of the profound interdependencies of marine and terrestrial ecosystems in Pncima, such as the transfer of nutrients to the land and the capture of carbon from the land in salt marshes and estuaries, a full consideration of these linkages will need to be embodied in integrated planning. 

Pncima - The First Formal Gathering
The first PNCIMA Forum, was held on March 26-27, 2009. The event was attended by individuals and organizations that work in, plan for, and use resources in Pncima. This included federal and provincial governments, First Nations, coastal communities, non-governmental organizations, and representatives from all marine sectors and recreation. more about the forum>>

Follow up to this meeting is underway. For information on how you can participate and events that may be hosted in your community, go to the Forum Website, www.pncima.org or phone the PNCIMA Secretariat, the branch of Fisheries and Oceans Canada organizing the forum - 604-666-2873 or email info@pncima.org