The integration of ecological and planning principles for the purpose of marine systems management

Abstract

Planning is a decision-making process characterised as being normative, forward-looking and comprehensive, whereas ecology is the study of the structure and function of nature.

My hypothesis is that ecological input is at present inadequate for many areas of the New Zealand coast. Thus the central theme is how the study of the structure and function of marine biological systems may contribute to the establishment of objectives for the future and in making natural systems most productive. The approach taken is to review the characteristics of planning and marine ecology, to integrate them, and relate this to the needs of maritime planning in New Zealand.

Three issues are seen as important. These are environmental impact assessment of proposed seascape changes, approaches to, and the scope for, preservation of ecological resources and the necessity for improved environmental monitoring. Ecological input methodologies are introduced designed to address these issues and are evaluated.

Recent application of environmental planning in Wellington Harbour is discussed.