Integrated and deliberative multidimensional assessment of a subtropical coastal-marine ecosystem (Babitonga bay, Brazil)

We investigate the operationalization of an integrated and deliberative multidimensional assessment (distribution of socioeconomic activities across marine spaces, risk to ecosystem levels, pressures on ecosystem services, and conflicts) in a Brazilian subtropical coastal-estuarine social-ecological system that is currently changing from a fragmented and sectoral governance system towards an ecosystem-based regime. Based on the perception of five direct ecosystem user groups (aquatic transport, tourism and recreation, mariculture, mining, and fisheries) we explored how the multidimensional assessment approach may inform ecologically coherent and socially equitable coastal governance and development. We conducted three cycles of participatory planning workshops (n = 39) with all groups: to map uses and activities across 7 contextually different planning units; to identify conflicts; and to assess the spatial distribution of risks to the ecosystem. We mapped the spatial distribution of 28 activities that directly generate provisioning and cultural ecosystem services (ES), and their associated indirect impact-chains on all ESs types and affected users. A total of 44 conflicts (32 inter- and 12 intra-sectoral) were discussed, and were higher in more intensely used areas. A habitat risk assessment scaled-up an ecosystem-level understanding of areas in need of urgent management. Important habitats (mangroves, submerged rocky outcrops, soft bottoms, water column) are facing high levels of risk; and a significant heterogeneity in spatial distribution of risk justifies radically alternative, contextually-based management and development measures to challenge the status quo. We conclude that the ecosystem services will likely continue to benefit present and future generations if an ecosystem-based management approach is consistently adopted with five sets of priorities: 1) advance plural valuation mechanisms with awareness of pressure-levels on the ecosystem; 2) manage conflicts while creating synergies amongst existing activities across space; 3) avoid expansion of pressure on ecologically sensitive areas; 4) consolidate the emerging novel democratic governance mechanism; and 5) explore the transferability approach's potential to scale-up coastal governance transformation in Brazil.