To support the implementation of the Ecosystem Approach, the Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Programme of the Mediterranean Sea and Coast (IMAP) was adopted in 2016 through COP 19 Decision IG.22/7, providing a coherent regional framework for monitoring and assessment.
Building on national IMAP implementation and the findings of the 2023 Mediterranean Quality Status Report (MED QSR), a revised Ecosystem Approach policy and an updated version of IMAP were developed following the mandate of the Contracting Parties at COP 23, with a view to strengthening monitoring and assessment capacities, improving data quality, and ensuring reliable regional assessments.
Ecological Objective 1 (EO1) of IMAP aims to ensure that biological diversity is maintained or enhanced and that the quality and occurrence of coastal and marine habitats, as well as the distribution and abundance of species, are in line with prevailing physiographic, hydrographic, geographic and climatic conditions.
Among the EO1 Common Indicators, Common Indicator 2 (CI2) addresses the condition of the habitat’s typical species and communities and constitutes a key element for assessing the environmental status of marine habitats.
In this context, SPA/RAC is seeking a qualified consultant to support the development of the IMAP Guidance Factsheets for Ecological Objective 1 (EO1) Common Indicator 2 related to pelagic habitats.