The LIFE REEF project invites you to the conference “The Future of Marine Spatial Protection: From Science to Policy” on October 28–30, which will gather marine management professionals, scientists, experts, coastal municipality specialists, and representatives of non-governmental organizations. The conference will take place at the Liepāja Latvian Society House, Rožu laukums 5/6, Liepāja.

The conference is intended for a wide range of interested parties – marine management professionals, scientists, students, coastal municipality specialists, and NGO representatives. Participation is free of charge, the working language is English, and registration is open until October 10th on the project website: https://reef.daba.gov.lv/public/eng/conference/.

“The Baltic Sea is one of the most threatened seas in the world. Its protection requires in-depth scientific understanding, careful data analysis, and close cooperation among all involved parties. By bringing together leading experts from Latvia, the Baltic Sea region, and the European Union, as well as representatives of state, municipal, and non-governmental organizations at this conference, we want to foster a constructive dialogue. Together, we will explore and seek sustainable marine governance solutions that would help preserve the Baltic Sea's biodiversity for the future,” emphasizes Ilze Sabule, Head of the LIFE REEF project.

The conference will evaluate which human activities most affect marine ecosystems and explain what restrictions can most effectively promote the restoration of these valuable habitats. Experts will also report on defining the boundaries of marine protected areas (MPAs) and their integration into marine spatial planning to achieve a balance among various interests at sea.

One of the most essential questions of the conference will be whether and how it is possible to combine economic activity with nature conservation in the sea. Special attention will be paid to how to develop an inclusive, meaningful dialogue with social partners to promote balanced and sustainable long-term management of marine space.

The conference working sessions will address significant topics in marine protection and management:

  • The establishment of a network of Marine Protected Areas in European seas;
  • The integration of MPAs into marine and coastal planning;
  • Assessment of impacts and threats;
  • Management of coastal fisheries within the boundaries of MPAs;
  • Stakeholder cooperation in the establishment and management of MPAs.

Participants who wish to share their experience in marine research, protection, and management are invited to prepare posters, leaflets, brochures, and other informational materials. They will have the opportunity to display these at the conference venue.