MSFD Implementation
Our expertise in the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) centers on developing and implementing risk-based cumulative pressure-impact assessments toward achieving Good Environmental Status (GES). We identify activities and pressures causing GES failures and provide comprehensive analysis of MSFD pressures, activities, and affected environmental components (MSFD Descriptors).
Our services include recommendations for enhanced monitoring, assessment, and management through the evaluation and redesign of Programmes of Measures (PoMs).
Indicative Project
Assessment of Data and Metadata Readiness for MSFD
Project: “Assessment study for data and metadata availability and adequacy for MSFD Article 19(3) obligations”, funded by EUROPEAN CLIMATE, INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT EXECUTIVE AGENCY (CINEA) Department CINEA.D – Natural resources, climate, sustainable blue economy and clean energy/ 2025/OP/0006
This project supports the European Commission in overcoming these barriers to data accessibility, standardisation, and harmonisation under Article 19(3), with a focus on the 11 MSFD Descriptors. This is achieved through a detailed evaluation of current accessibility levels, assessment of compliance with INSPIRE and the Open Data Directive, and review of metadata completeness and parameter coverage. A robust gap analysis identifies discrepancies in data quality and standards across reporting entities.
The project proposes and tests practical tools, such as standardisation templates – data models, metadata completeness checklists, and controlled vocabularies, to improve alignment across MS, Regional Sea Conventions, and EU agencies. Pilot harmonisation efforts are implemented to demonstrate viable workflows. By enhancing coherence and promoting the “report once, use many times” principle, the project aims to streamline data flows into shared platforms like EMODnet and WISE Marine, ultimately improving data discoverability, usability, and reuse under open licensing conditions.
Other members of the consortium: AETS, INTERNATIONAL ESTUARINE & COASTAL SPECIALISTS (IECS) LTD, ICM-CSIC.
