Contributions to the planning of argentine maritime spaces: The Northern Patagonian socioecological system as a case study

Abstract

Argentina´s marine ecosystems provide numerous ecosystem services that support the development of different uses and activities, among which conflicts may arise. However, the implementation of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) processes in Argentina is in its early stages. The objective of this study was to analyze a part of the Spatial Maritime Areas of Argentina (EEAr) from a socio-ecological systems perspective, considering areas of importance based on the ecosystem services they provide and conflicts arising from uses and activities. The goal was to generate zoning proposals for management. The DAPSI(W)R model was employed, enabling a comprehensive analysis of potential effects of human actions and natural events on the marine ecosystem under study. The results yielded a detailed diagnosis of the area, facilitating concrete proposals for interventions and zoning. The primary contribution of this work lies in adapting an innovative methodological proposal for marine spatial planning in the region, aiming to harmonize uses, reduce conflicts, and preserve biodiversity in maritime spaces. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of considering marine ecosystems as socio-ecological systems, providing a holistic perspective that addresses not only environmental but also social and legislative issues.