OVERVIEW

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are designated marine zones where human activities are limited or prohibited to protect the natural environment, its fauna, flora, and ecosystems. MPAs are designed to protect marine habitats and the species that inhabit them, contributing to the conservation of marine biodiversity. They are also important study sites for scientific research on the sea and its resources. They can support the development of sustainable economic activities, such as responsible tourism and sustainable fishing. They represent an important tool for managing the sea and its resources and therefore the study of their structure and functioning is central to the training path of a student interested in these topics.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course provides the theoretical and practical foundation for conserving the marine environment through the establishment of marine protected areas. Conservation biology issues will be addressed, as well as elements of environmental legislation related to the establishment and management of marine protected areas (MPAs). Finally, some case studies on the evaluation of the effectiveness of MPAs will be critically described.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

In-depth study of the issues related to the correct management of Marine Protected Areas and their role in the conservation of the marine environment. Particular attention will be given to their planning and socio-economic impacts. Particular attention will be given to the planning and type of investigations necessary for the choice and monitoring of MPAs, as well as to their socio-economic impacts, both positive and negative.

PREREQUISITES

The following basic knowledge is necessary to address the contents of the teaching effectively: ecology

TEACHING METHODS

The teaching consists of lectures, totalling approximately 20 hours. Attendance at lectures is not mandatory, but recommended.

The way lessons are taught may be modified due to emergencies that prevent in-person lessons from being held. In this case, classes will be held via the Teams platform using suitable substitute teaching tools.

Students who have valid certification of physical or learning disabilities on file with the University and who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other circumstances regarding lectures, coursework and exams, should speak both with the instructor and with Professor Sara Ferrando (sara.ferrando@unige.it), the Department’s disability liaison.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

History of environmental protection in Europe and Italy

Protection of the coastal marine strip and planning of uses: definition of the coastal strip and its legislation, human impact, tourism and recreational boating

sustainable development

Importance and role of protected areas: Marine nature reserves, Off-shore sanctuaries, Border marine reserves, Biological protection zones, Biological oases

Legislation

Planning and investigations: Fact-finding phase and Design phase

Establishment procedures: Practical, ecological and naturalistic criteria, Criteria related to research, Criteria related to economic and social benefits, Landscape and cultural criteria

Socio-economic aspects: Management objectives and actors

Economy and social relations

economic value and economic impact

Permitted activities: Professional and sport fishing, Recreational boating, Underwater activities

Protection effect

Monitoring and scientific research

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Basic text: Cattaneo-Vietti R. & L. Tunesi, 2007. Marine protected areas in Italy: problems and perspectives. Ed. Aracne, Rome. 1-249.

All presentations shown in class are available to students on AulaWeb, as well as other non-copyrighted teaching materials. The recommended volumes for further study are available at the School library.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

For lessons start and timetable visit: https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam is unique and consists of an oral test with a discussion of the program topics.

There will be 2 exam sessions available for the winter session (mid-January-February) and 5 sessions for the summer session (June, July and September). No extraordinary sessions will be granted outside the periods specified in the Course of Study regulations, except for students who are unable to meet the prescribed time.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The preparation methods for the exam are explained in the first introductory lesson, which is available like all the others on Aulaweb.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Links to other information and websites of interest: www.portofinoamp.it