Manual for the Application of Appropriate Assessment (AA) Procedures in Marine Sites
This volume provides a methodological guide for professionals, technical experts, and Public Administrations involved in the protection of marine and coastal biodiversity.
The Manual was developed within the framework of the LIFE SEA.NET project, “Urgent Actions for the Implementation of the Marine Natura 2000 Network” (LIFE20 GIE/IT/000763), with the aim of supporting the initiatives of the Italian Ministry for the Environment and Energy Security in strengthening and optimizing the application of the Appropriate Assessment (AA) procedure in marine and coastal-marine sites of the EU Natura 2000 Network
The Manual aims to harmonize and provide methodologies for site characterization, impact assessment, and the identification of mitigation and compensation measures specifically tailored to marine and coastal habitats and marine species of Community interest, in cases where marine works and activities are planned within or may affect Natura 2000 sites.
What does the Manual provide?
- Regulatory and procedural framework – An in-depth analysis of the methodological aspects of Appropriate Assessment (AA) and of the updates introduced by the National Guidelines (2019), with particular emphasis on the role of conservation objectives and conservation measures.
- Habitat- and species-specific approach – Practical guidance for site characterization, impact assessment, and the identification of mitigation and compensation measures aligned with the conservation objectives of Italy’s marine environments.
- Analysis of the main anthropogenic pressures and impacts – The Manual examines the principal threats associated with the construction and operation of marine infrastructures and activities, including turbidity, hydrodynamic alterations, habitat fragmentation, water and plastic pollution, underwater noise, vibrations, and collisions with vessels.
- Design of mitigation and compensation measures – A dedicated chapter focuses on planning measures to reduce impacts and, where significant adverse effects cannot be avoided or mitigated, on restoration and enhancement actions (e.g. habitat restoration) aimed at safeguarding the overall coherence of the Natura 2000 Network.
The Manual focuses on selected habitats and species of Community interest:
Habitats: Sandbanks (code 1110), Posidonia meadows (Posidonion oceanicae, code 1120*), Large shallow inlets and bays (code 1160), Reefs (code 1170), and Submerged or partially submerged sea caves (code 8330).
Species: Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), and Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus).
The Addendum
The Manual is complemented by an Addendum that compiles case studies and best practices drawn from a selection of real Appropriate Assessment (AA) cases carried out after 2019. These examples illustrate the progressive alignment of assessment studies with the stringent standards established by the European Union, providing practical insights into a range of project types and activities in marine and coastal environments.
Publication available only on-line