Demonstrating SPICOSA methodology for sustainable management of coastal zones in Mar Piccolo of Taranto.

SPICOSA (Science and Policy Integration for Coastal System Assessment) is developing and testing a policy-driven methodology for improving decisions concerning Integrated Coastal Zone Management (IZCM). The Project completely integrates the economic, social and environmental components of a coastal zone, which is considered essential to support sustainable environmental policies. The SPICOSA methodology, System Approach Framework (SAF) is implementing and testing the concepts and procedures simultaneously in eighteen European Study Sites, among which is Mar Piccolo of Taranto. Mar Piccolo is a nearly enclosed sea that experiences strong loading of nutrients, synthetics, and particulates, which derive from the surrounding urban, agricultural, and industrial activities. In addition, it is used as a fishing and naval port, by large mussel culture farms, and it constitutes a strong component of the city's culture. Strong stratification in the summer results in algal blooms and hypoxic phenomena, which periodically knock down the productivity of the benthic community and impact the growth of the mussels. Meetings with policy makers are organized to focus on an important Impact, which will then be aired with a balanced group of Stakeholders to define the broad Policy Issues involved. Our exercise will then involve the construction of simulation models, cost-benefit analysis, and social response assessments related to these Issues for delivery to Policy, Stakeholders, and the Public.