SUMMARY REPORT Laying the Foundations for a Sustainable Blue Economy in Ecuador Calcutta Ship on Guayaquil deep water port About this report © 2025 International Bank for Reconstruction and Development / The World Bank This report aims to support Ecuador in identifying priority marine and coastal areas for conservation within its territorial 1818 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20433 sea, considering its strategic goals as described in its 2015–2030 National Biodiversity Strategy and its commitment to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework’s “30 x 30 target” of 30 percent of land and marine areas conserved by Telephone: 202-473-1000; internet: www.worldbank.org 2030. The report also offers recommendations and actions that can be taken in the short, middle, and long term to achieve these recommendations. This work is a product of the staff of The World Bank with external contributions. The findings, interpretations, and conclusions expressed in this work do not necessarily reflect the views of The World Bank, its Board of Executive Directors, or the governments they represent. The World Bank does not Acknowledgments guarantee the accuracy of the data included in this work. The boundaries, colors, denominations, and other information shown on any map in this work do not imply any judgment on the part of The World Bank concerning the legal status of any territory or the endorsement or acceptance of such boundaries. Nothing herein shall constitute or be considered to be a limitation upon or waiver of the privileges and immunities of The World Bank, all of which are specifically reserved. This report was produced by a World Bank team consisting which complements ongoing World Bank engagements to of João Moura Estevão Marques da Fonseca, Paloma safeguard the country’s oceanic biodiversity while advancing Caro (both Environment Department, Latin American Unit), its blue economy. RIGHTS AND PERMISSIONS and Gabriela Encalada (Environment Department, Global Unit), with the support of a consortium comprised of Hidria, The technical assistance that led to the publishing of this This work is available under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 IGO license (CC BY 3.0 IGO) http:// CEMarin (the Corporation Center of Excellence in Marine report was funded by PROBLUE, an umbrella trust fund that creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/igo. Under the Creative Commons Attribution license, you are Sciences), and Nazca Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas supports the development of integrated, sustainable, and free to copy, distribute, transmit, and adapt this work, including for commercial purposes, under the and led by Eduardo Martínez. healthy marine and coastal resources. The team would like following conditions: to thank all PROBLUE donors for making this work possible. The spatial analysis that is the basis for this report was Attribution—Please cite the work as follows: World Bank. 2025. “Laying the Foundations for a developed by Patricia Casal (Hidria). Sustainable Blue Economy in Ecuador: Assessing the Conservation Priorities and Gaps in the Territorial Sea of Ecuador to Support Marine Spatial Planning and Maximize the Blue Economy.” Washington, DC: We owe deep thanks to all the staff from the Dirección World Bank. 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Fishing fleet on the beach, in front of the fish market, at the harbor in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador Executive Summary The availability and quality of spatial data used in this exercise will determine the accuracy of the final spatial prioritization map. Despite this wealth of information, there is still a scarcity of detailed georeferenced layers for marine habitats. The country has already undertaken several projects to strengthen marine data collection and analysis to address this knowledge gap. Ecuador’s Pacific Ocean coastline stretches 5,271 kilometers Identifying areas for conservation will require intensive from north to south and is home to 21 of the 27 globally coordination and collaboration between government, the recognized types of marine and coastal ecosystems, private sector, and the wider community. Ensuring such Priority areas for conservation identified supporting a rich diversity of life. Yet, despite conservation broad participation is important for avoiding future conflicts, efforts, human activities continue to drive the destruction and not only between different activities but also between various degradation of habitats, threatening the ecological health conservation objectives. Marine spatial planning is a tool for The highest priority areas for Ecuador’s blue economy are As expected, there is a significant overlap between these two of these valuable ecosystems. Between 1985 and 2022, achieving such participation and consensus. By enabling those that simultaneously provide multiple ecosystem services. areas. However, large tracts of high-priority land and ocean for example, forest cover along the coastline declined by effective integrated coastal zone management, which by In this analysis, greater importance has been accorded to remain unprotected, especially in the Gulf of Guayaquil, 823,860 ha, while the geographic footprint of agriculture and definition balances human activities with the conservation ecosystem services that support conservation objectives where wild mangroves are increasingly being threatened by commercial forestry grew by 633,400 ha. of biodiversity, marine spatial planning contributes to the while enabling the country’s blue economy to flourish. The the rapid expansion of shrimp farming; around the Machalilla sustainable use of marine resources while supporting weighting of ecosystem services was defined in line with National Park, which hosts the only coral reefs on the Including the Galapagos, Ecuador’s coastal zone and adaptation to the emerging challenges of climate change. agreed objectives. The results were presented to stakeholders country’s continental coast but is threatened by destructive territorial totals 206,000 square kilometers. With only 19 for validation of the proposed priority areas for conservation. forms of mass tourism; and on the Esmeraldas coast, where percent of this area secured for conservation, the country Identifying, mapping, and prioritizing the country’s mangroves are gradually being replaced by agricultural needs to substantially increase the area of conservation- environmentally and economically important marine and Figure ES1 depicts the priority conservation areas as land and aquaculture pools. Several smaller, disconnected worthy land and ocean under protection if it is to contribute coastal areas—that is, spatial prioritization analysis— determined through the spatial prioritization exercise patches along the coast and in El Oro are also not protected. to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework’s is an important step towards an effective marine spatial (green, yellow, and gray areas, where the green areas When combined, the total priority area that is not currently “30 x 30” target, which aims to secure 30 percent of land and planning process. This report summarises the outcome of indicate high-priority zones), overlaid with Ecuador’s protected totals 125,057 ha. marine areas for conservation by 2030. a spatial prioritization exercise undertaken in consultation existing nationally declared protected areas (purple lines). with key representatives from the country’s public, private, nongovernmental, and academic sectors between 2023 and 2024. Figure ES1. Spatial prioritization map showing areas conservation and marine and coastal protected areas 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 10150000 10150000 APROVECHAMIENTO DEL POTENCIAL DE LOS OCÉANOS PRIORITY ZONES PARA EL DESARROLLO SOSTENIBLE EN ECUADOR Zonas prioritarias para la conservación FOR CONSERVATION Methodology 10100000 10100000 Fuente de datos: Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica (MAATE, 2020), Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (SNAP, 2023), Instituto Geográfico Militar (IGM, 2016), Fundación Nazca (2006), POEMC (Senplades, 2017), Áreas Clave para la Biodiversidad Low priority (CBD, 2024), MAPBIOMAS (2022), Planeteck Italia, & GeoVille. (2024). Esmeraldas 10050000 10050000 The spatial prioritization analysis broadly followed these steps: Medium priority COLOMBIA 1 Priority ecosystem services for conservation, human development, and conservation were identified. High priority 10000000 10000000 Océano ECUADOR Pacífico Boundaries of 2 Relevant metrics relating to the identified priority ecosystem services were defined. protected areas 9950000 9950000 PERÚ Manabí ± 9900000 9900000 Relevant and available cartographic data was compiled and analyzed in line with the criteria 3 Sistema de coordenadas: 1:2.000.000 WGS84 UTM identified in Step 2. ECUADOR Zona 17 S 0 10 20 40 60 80 Unidad lineal: metros km 9850000 9850000 LEYENDA Símbolos convencionales Provincias costeras Data was weighted in a spatial reclassification exercise to assess the importance of the 4 Delimitación espacios marítimos 9800000 9800000 identified areas. Mar Territorial Continental Zona Contigua Continental Guayas Mar territorial continental Zona contigua continental Santa 9750000 9750000 The information was integrated into a prioritization map that combines all the criteria in a way 5 Zonas prioritarias para la conservación Elena Prioridad baja that reflects their relative importance for conservation. Prioridad media Prioridad alta 9700000 9700000 Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas Área Natural Protegida Golfo de Guayaquil 9650000 9650000 Service Layer Credits: Esri, Garmin, GEBCO, El Oro NOAA NGDC, and other contributors 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 Source: World Bank 4 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 5 Table ES1. Proposed recommendations and supporting short-, medium-, and long-term actions Short-term actions (2030) Medium-term actions (2030–2035) Long-term actions (2050) 1. Explore the development and implementation of a co-management system for artisanal fishing areas in the Gulf of Guayaquil. Recommendations • Generate data and information by conducting • Design a participatory governance system for • Develop local capacity to conduct monitoring, a fishery census, mapping important breeding fisheries co-management based on experience control, and surveillance activities of grounds, and monitoring stocks artisanal fisheries. Ocean resources in Ecuador face significant challenges due to human activities that threaten the integrity of marine • Develop a proposal for no-take zones and • Review fisheries regulations and the viability stock monitoring. and coastal ecosystems. Adequate management, based on updated management plans and regulated public use, of transferable quotas. are needed to ensure effective conservation, especially since all marine and coastal protected areas in Ecuador host visitors and conduct activities that could exert pressure on natural resources. 2. Implement a management system based on the carrying capacity of critical areas in Machalilla National Park. • Conduct surveys to map coral reefs and • Conduct a study of ecological carrying capacity • Ensure continuous monitoring of coral reef The following recommendations were developed in close consultation with institutional actors and are based on the determine exclusion and permitted using geographic information system (GIS) tools health and evaluation of the impact of the outcomes of the spatial analysis and prioritization exercise. They are accompanied by a set of concrete potential anchoring zones based on the updated mapping implemented measures. actions designed to be implemented in the short, medium, and long term (Table ES1), thus ensuring a staggered • Consult with local communities, fishers, • Install ecologically friendly mooring buoys and and tour operators to gain their collaboration adequate signage approach to marine conservation and the responsible use of resources. and input. • Train personnel for patrols and monitoring and awareness-raising actions. Explore the development and implementation of a co-management system for artisanal fishing 1 areas in the Gulf of Guayaquil. This approach involves the active participation of fishers in the 3. Develop a mangrove management and restoration plan for areas that are under pressure due to land-use changes. management of natural resources, ultimately strengthening sustainable local fisheries management. • Consult with shrimp producers to identify • Develop training programs for producers on • Partner with nongovernmental organizations specific opportunities and challenges sustainable farming techniques and international agencies for funding and technical support to market the products of Implement a management system based on the carrying capacity of critical areas in Machalilla • Assess the feasibility of different livelihood • Provide technical assistance and ongoing sustainable blue enterprises diversification strategies in the local context, support for the implementation of new activities National Park. To protect marine ecosystems from the impact of maritime mass tourism and recreational 2 activities, we propose a management system that regulates the number and type of activities in critical such as multi-trophic aquaculture and ecotourism, aligning them with the objectives of that slow down mangrove land conversion. • Encourage local sustainable blue enterprises branding that highlights the environmental and the SocioManglar program and strengthening social benefits of the habitats they areas based on the carrying capacity of those areas. existing stewardship arrangements to maximize help conserve. environmental and economic benefits • Identify areas that require restoration actions Develop a mangrove management and restoration plan for areas that are under pressure due to and design a pilot project for participatory land-use changes. This plan could specifically focus on areas where mangroves are being replaced 3 restoration and monitoring of results. These with aquaculture, this plan should include restoration and sustainable management measures that activities should ideally be implemented in communities that are already under such balance local economic needs with the conservation of these vital ecosystems. custodial arrangements to reinforce their importance as a robust and tested governance framework. Establish the basis for marine spatial planning in Ecuador’s continental sea. This component 4. Establish the basis for marine spatial planning in Ecuador’s continental sea. includes developing guidelines for spatial planning that incorporate the principles of sustainability, 4 conservation, and the rational use of marine resources to harmonize different uses of the marine space • Form a marine spatial planning working • Design and create a data portal within the • Update existing legislation to include group with representatives from various country’s Spatial Data Infrastructure to principles of ecosystem-based management and ensure the protection of biodiversity. government agencies, relevant economic centralize spatial and non-spatial information and strengthen institutional capacities for sectors, scientific communities, indigenous and for marine spatial planning and managing the investigation, monitoring, and law enforcement local communities, and other stakeholders to development of activities facilitate joint dialogue, planning, and • Implement mechanisms for the active decision-making • Develop seabed monitoring and mapping participation of coastal communities and programs based on the best available indigenous peoples in planning and decision- • Conduct data collection, analysis, and technologies, and secure funding for scientific making, recognizing and respecting their rights standardization based on international research to help map key ecosystem services. and traditional knowledge standards for spatial data management, such as those of the International Organization • Conduct vulnerability assessments and develop for Standardization and Open Geospatial comprehensive and area-based adaptation Consortium, and organize relevant strategies to protect marine ecosystems and training workshops coastal communities from the effects of climate change. • Revise the information contained in the Coastal and Marine Spatial Management Plan (POEMC) and update this measure based on the findings of the coastal area climate risk assessment currently underway • Create a roadmap to fully implement the POEMC. 6 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 7 Conclusion To meet its conservation commitments as defined in the It goes on to propose a suite of recommendations to ensure GBF’s 30 x 30 target and to maximize the potential of its that these areas are able to provide valuable ecosystem blue economy, Ecuador needs to unify its private, public, services to people over the long term. nongovernmental, and academic sectors under a vision for the country’s coastline that is inclusive, adaptive, and aligned The country now needs to build on this momentum, adapting with the country’s sustainability commitments. and refining the proposed strategies as new opportunities and challenges arise. With continued commitment, Ecuador This spatial analysis goes some way towards achieving can ensure a prosperous and resilient future for its coastal such unity by drawing in the best available data and communities and precious marine ecosystems. engaging key stakeholders to collectively identify priority coastal and marine areas for conservation. Pacific Coast Aerial View Santa Elena Ecuador 8 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 9 Contents LIST OF TABLES Table ES1. Proposed recommendations and supporting short-, medium-, and long-term actions ......................................... 7 Table 1. Values assigned to data reclassification for ecosystem services-based multicriteria spatial prioritization ........ 26 Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................................................ 4 Table 2. Total land cover of registered shrimp farms by province ........................................................................................... 31 1. Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Table 3. Proposed recommendations and supporting short-, medium-, and long-term actions ......................................... 37 2. About This Analysis ................................................................................................................................................ 20 LIST OF FIGURES Figure ES1. Spatial prioritization map showing areas conservation and marine and coastal protected areas .................... 5 3. Spatial Analysis: Mapping and Prioritizing Ecuador’s Blue Ecosystem Services .................................................................................................................................... 24 Figure 1. Changes in land cover for coastal provinces .............................................................................................................. 14 3.1 Classifying the selection criteria and mapping the data ............................................................................................... 25 Figure 2. Protected areas in Ecuador’s marine and coastal region ......................................................................................... 16 3.2 Multicriteria analysis and spatial prioritization ............................................................................................................... 26 Figure 3. Map of target geography ................................................................................................................................................ 21 3.3 Priority conservation areas identified .............................................................................................................................. 28 Figure 4. Spatial prioritization map to optimize marine and coastal resources for Ecuador’s blue economy .................... 28 4. Recommendations for Sustainable and Integrated Ocean Management ................ 34 Figure 5. Spatial prioritization map with delineated priority zones to optimize marine and coastal resources for Ecuador’s blue economy .................................................................................................................................................................. 29 5. Conclusion ........................................................................................................................................................................ 38 Figure 6. Map of priority zones for conservation and marine and coastal protected areas .................................................. 30 References .............................................................................................................................................................................. 39 Figure 7. National-level land cover of registered shrimp farms ................................................................................................ 31 Figure 8. Area converted to shrimp aquaculture in the Gulf of Guayaquil since 1985 .......................................................... 32 Seagulls on the beach sand in front of the ocean looking for food. San Pedro, Manabí, Ecuador. Acronyms and Abbreviations AIS Automatic identification system 1 CBD Convention on Biological Diversity Introduction EBSA Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Area GBF Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework GIS Geographic information system ha Hectare IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature km Kilometer Ecuador has a coastline along the Pacific Ocean that stretches 5,271 kilometers (km) from north to south, including islands, islets, km2 Square kilometer and inland edges of estuaries (Terán et al. 2006). This ecologically Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition MAATE (Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica) diverse coastline includes 21 of the 27 globally recognized types of marine and coastal ecosystems (Ministry of Environment 2015). Coastal and Marine Spatial Management Plan POEMC (Plan de Ordenamiento del Espacio Marino Costero) However, despite conservation efforts, habitat destruction and degradation driven by human activities remain a threat to the SNAP National System of Protected Areas (Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas) ecological health of these ecosystems. Boats in San Lorenzo Manabí Los Frailes, Ecuador 12 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 13 Challenges to Ecuador’s marine and coastal ecosystems Environmentally important areas Figure 1 shows changes in land cover over time for the coastal provinces of Esmeraldas, Manabí, Santa Elena, Guayas, and Ecuador’s coastline includes several environmentally important The National System of Protected Areas El Oro, between 1985 and 2022. Over this time, forest cover reduced by about 8 percent (823,860 ha in total), while agriculture areas, many of which are already protected under the country’s and commercial forestry areas increased by about 6.2 percent (633,400 ha). National System of Protected Areas (SNAP). These include Ecuador’s SNAP comprises about 26.2 million ha, or 19.42 beaches; mangroves in the province of Esmeraldas and the percent of the national territory, based on 2020 data (Figure Gulf of Guayaquil; coral reefs around Isla de la Plata; estuaries 2; Ministry of Environment 2020). These protected areas Figure 1. Changes in land cover for coastal provinces and coastal wetlands; sandy and rocky seabeds; and the consist of one national park (585,000 ha), six marine reserves upwelling zone of the cold, nutrient-rich Humboldt current, (418,137 ha), three ecological reserves (120,018 ha), five CHANGES IN LAND COVER FOR COASTAL PROVINCES which supports various local ecological processes (Terán et wildlife refuges (162,192 ha), four national recreation areas al., 2006; Ministry of Environment and GIZ, 2012). Of all these (7,694 ha), and two wildlife production reserves (67,971 ha) 60 areas, those found in the intertidal zone—mangroves, beaches (see Box 1 for definitions of each type of protected area). In (sand and silt), estuaries, and coastal wetlands—are especially the coastal and marine zone, there are 21 protected areas important both for marine biodiversity and for the economic totaling about 1.36 million ha. 50 and cultural benefits they bring to local communities. The Percent of coverage (relative to total) management and conservation of these zones are essential 40 for maintaining the health and productivity of oceans and coastlines in this region. 30 20 BOX 1: LEVELS OF CONSERVATION PROTECTIONS 10 Ecuador’s National System of Protected Areas (SNAP) makes provision for the following types of protected areas. 0 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2011 National parks: A national park is a large conservation area (more than 10,000 hectares [ha]) that aims to conserve landscapes, whole ecosystems, and species. National parks should have minimal Year human presence while allowing for environmental research and monitoring. Restrictions on use are high (restricted), although nature tourism is allowed. Forests Natural non-forest cover (incl grasslands) Agriculture and commercial forestry Marine reserves: Marine reserves aim to conserve marine ecosystems and species. Restrictions on human activities may be lighter in certain zones, based on management plans that acknowledge Source: World Bank, with data from MapBiomas Ecuador (database), and Climate Observatory and Brazilian Greenhouse Gas Emissions the area’s conservation needs. Estimation System, Piracicaba, Brazil (accessed 2022), https://ecuador.MapBiomas.org/mapas-de-cobertura-y-uso/ Ecological reserves: Ecological reserves are areas with outstanding natural resources. The main objectives of ecological reserves are to: (i) conserve genetic material, ecological diversity, scenic With only 19 percent of Ecuador’s territorial sea—equivalent Ensuring such broad participation is important for avoiding beauty, and special phenomena, and (ii) provide regulated environments for scientific research and to 206,000 square kilometers (km2) of ocean, including future conflicts, not only between different activities but also environmental education. Recreation and tourism are permitted in limited areas, where such activities the Galapagos archipelago—protected, Ecuador will need between various conservation objectives. do not deplete natural resources or conflict with research. to expand the area under protection if it is to substantially increase its contribution to the Kunming-Montreal Global Marine spatial planning is a tool for achieving global and local Wildlife refuges: A wildlife refuge is a small conservation area (less than 5,000 ha) that aim to Biodiversity Framework’s (GBF’s) “30 x 30 target”, which objectives and commitments by enabling integrated coastal conserve threatened species and their habitats. Allowable actions in these areas include habitat aims to secure 30 percent of land and marine areas for zone management that balances human activities with the and species management; environmental research and monitoring; ecosystem restoration; and conservation by 2030 (Ministry of Environment 2020). conservation of biodiversity and natural capital, so promoting environmental education. Restrictions on use are high (restricted). adaptation to the new challenges of climate change. Identifying areas for conservation will require intensive Natural recreation areas: These medium-sized areas (between 5,000 and 10,000 ha) primarily aim coordination and collaboration between government, to conserve the natural landscape while allowing for a moderate human presence. Permitted activities the private sector, and the wider community to identify include tourism, recreation, ecosystem restoration, and environmental research and monitoring. and prioritize areas that are crucial for both their Restrictions on use are low (somewhat restricted). biodiversity and their socioeconomic importance. Wildlife production reserves: These medium-sized areas host vulnerable or economically valuable wildlife and are used for research, subsistence hunting by local communities, or commercial hunting, under specific regulations. Key activities include sustainable wildlife management, environmental education, ecosystem restoration, and nature-focused tourism. 14 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 15 Figure 2. Protected areas in Ecuador’s marine and coastal region Economically important areas 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 10150000 10150000 APROVECHAMIENTO DEL POTENCIAL DE LOS OCÉANOS CONVENTIONAL PARA EL DESARROLLO SOSTENIBLE EN ECUADOR Manglares del estuario ELOY ALFARO SAN LORENZO Ecuador’s marine and coastal areas support several Ports and shipping SYMBOLS Áreas protegidas Río Esmeraldas RIOVERDE important economic activities that exert strong pressure on 10100000 10100000 the environment. A growing human population—together with Ecuador imports most foreign goods by sea along ESMERALDAS Fuente de datos: Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica Manglares (MAATE, 2020), Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (SNAP, 2023), Cayapas Mataje Coastal provinces ATACAMES Instituto Geográfico Militar (IGM, 2016). Base de referencia: ESRI, USGS, NOAA. Galera Esmeraldas the related expansion of urbanized areas, the development of international and coastal maritime traffic routes. Several Main settlements San Francisco tourism, an increase in industrial and other productive activities major ports along its coastline serve as hubs for international 10050000 10050000 Main coastal villages COLOMBIA Manglares Estuario such as aquaculture, and the development of infrastructure, trade and the transportation of goods (especially agricultural Hydrographic network Río Muisne MUISNE ports, breakwaters, and other maritime infrastructure—are and fishery products). According to the Ministry of Transport 10000000 10000000 and Public Works’ 2023 Statistical Bulletin, the key ports PEDERNALES all placing pressure on mangrove areas. Out to sea, shipping DELIMITATION OF Océano Pacífico ECUADOR and fishing have intensified in recent years, as have marine for Ecuador’s economy are the Port of Guayaquil, which MARINE AREAS JAMA Puerto Cabuyal – aquaculture and the extraction of natural resources. handled more than 10.6 million metric tons of cargo in 2023; 9950000 9950000 Punta San Clemente Limit of the Territorial Sea Isla Corazón y Fragata the Port of Manta (999,282 metric tons); the Puerto Bolívar of Continental EcuadorPERÚ SUCRE Manabí Economically important activities and infrastructure in (2.3 million metric tons); and the Port of Esmeraldas (117,165 Limit of the Continental Ecuador’s coastal and marine areas include: shipping and metric tons). The Port of El Morro, though smaller, is crucial 9900000 9900000 ± PORTOVIEJO Contiguous Zone1:2.000.000 Sistema de coordenadas: JARAMIJO ports infrastructure; fishing (both commercial and artisanal); for regional logistics and trade activities, while the Posorja MANTA WGS84 UTM ECUADOR Zona 17 S Territorial Sea of 0 10 20 40 60 80 Unidad lineal: metros km Pacoche Continental Ecuador aquaculture; tourism; and the extraction of minerals and Deep Water Port is one of Ecuador’s most strategic ports, 9850000 9850000 JIPIJAPA LEYENDA Continental Símbolos convencionales PUERTO LOPEZ Machalilla energy resources. serving as a complementary logistics hub to the Port of Contiguous Manabí Provincias costeras Zone Cantagallo - Guayaquil, especially for exports of bananas, shrimp, and Asentamientos humanos principales Manchalilla other agricultural products. New marinas and port services 9800000 9800000 ! ( Principales pueblos costeros Bajo Cope Guayas NATURAL Red hidrográfica El Pelado SANTA ELENA are continuously being developed to meet the maritime and Delimitación espacios marítimos PROTECTED AREAS GUAYAQUIL tourism sectors’ needs. Parque Los Samanes Lago Santa DURAN 9750000 9750000 Mar Territorial Continental Puntilla de SALINAS Zona Contigua Continental Santa Elena Elena Isla Santay National park Mar territorial continental Manglares El Salado Ecological reserve Zona contigua continental Manglares PLAYAS 9700000 9700000 Churute Wildlife production reserve Áreas Naturales Protegidas NARANJAL Playas de Parque nacional Reserva marina Villamil Marine reserve Reserva ecológica Refugio vida silvestre Manglares BALAO Reserva producción fauna Área nacional recreación El Morro Wildlife refuge PUCARA 9650000 9650000 EL GUABO Isla de National recreation area Santa Clara MACHALA Arenillas Service Layer Credits: Esri, Garmin, GEBCO, NOAA NGDC, and other contributors HUAQUILLAS SANTA ROSA El Oro 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 Source: World Bank, with data from National System of Protected Areas of Ecuador database, Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition.1 Ecologically or biologically significant marine areas EBSAs, as defined by the CBD, are ocean areas that display particularly important ecological and biological characteristics, for example, by providing essential habitats, food sources or breeding grounds for a particular species. There are two EBSAs within the analysis area: • The Carnegie Mountains spans across Ecuador’s jurisdictional and international waters as well as Peru’s jurisdictional waters and include several important structures. Its Equatorial Front is a transition zone between the El Niño and Humboldt currents and is characterized by an intense thermohaline gradient that peaks during the dry season. This high-productivity area contains numerous endemic species and the largest populations of several Eastern Tropical Pacific species. It serves as the mating grounds for larger cetaceans and provides nests for sea turtles. • The Gulf of Guayaquil is the largest estuary on South America’s Pacific coast, extending about 120 km inland. This highly productive estuary is lined by mangroves that support important fisheries and contains a high diversity of phytoplankton. Nesting colonies The area’s seabird nesting colonies display high concentrations of pelicans, frigate birds, boobies of various species, and gulls. Seabirds indicate areas of high productivity and are important because of their role as both predator and prey. Ecuador’s beaches also provide nesting for sea turtles, mainly Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill turtles), Chelonia mydas (green turtles), and Dermochelys coriacea (leatherback turtles). The species Lepidochelys olivacea (olive ridley turtle) only feeds in equatorial waters. Most of the documented turtle nesting sites in Ecuador are found in Machalilla National Park, in Manabí province. 1 See https://www.ambiente.gob.ec/areas-prrotegidas Puerto Bolivar 16 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 17 Industrial and artisanal fishing Tourism Marine spatial planning and the local policy landscape Artisanal and industrial fishing fleets in Ecuador target fish Local and international tourists are attracted to the and crustaceans for domestic and foreign markets. The combination of beaches, national parks, fishing villages, Ecuador’s 2015–2030 National Biodiversity Strategy aims to Even though the POEMC has only been partly implemented country’s artisanal fishing fleet consists of 15,849 vessels, marine biodiversity, and rich cultural heritage along Ecuador’s reduce pressures on biodiversity while ensuring the equitable and is focused primarily on identifying priority areas for most of which are based in Esmeraldas (4,896), Manabí coastline. The main tourist beaches are Jambelí (El Oro); distribution of the benefits of healthy ecosystems. Specifically, conservation, it is nonetheless the first official document (3,983), and Guayas (3,959). The number of registered Salinas y Playas (Guayas); Manta, Puerto López, and Bahía Outcome 8 highlights “the need to harness coastal and marine that aims to establish the ordering of uses, activities, and industrial fishing vessels range from 483 in 2011 to 444 de Caráquez (Manabí); and Atacames and Súa (Esmeraldas). resources in a sustainable manner, which implies managing infrastructure in coastal and marine areas. This spatial analysis in 2015 (Undersecretariat for Fisheries Resources 2013). Underwater recreational activities are concentrated on the these resources within safe ecological limits and ensuring the builds on the POEMC’s foundations, taking a broader approach Not all vessels are covered by an automatic identification coastlines of Esmeraldas and Atacames (Esmeraldas); conservation of biodiversity”. that includes the valuation of ecosystem services and how system (AIS) and detailed data on fishing areas and effort are Jijipapa and Puerto López (Manabí); and Santa Elena and sustainable management could preserve and enhance this currently lacking. This is limiting opportunities to effectively La Libertad (Santa Elena). Marine spatial planning is embedded in local policy through the value while driving the country’s emerging blue economy. manage the artisanal and industrial fleets. 2017 Coastal and Marine Spatial Management Plan (POEMC; If not carefully managed, tourism activities and the related National Secretariat of Planning and Development 2017)2. The Whereas artisanal fleets generally operate within 30 km of development of tourist infrastructure can damage coastal POEMC has a 2030 horizon and identifies 25 priority marine the coastline and use gillnets, hooks, harpoons, and hand and marine areas of high natural value. Conflict with other and coastal areas—covering about 930,000 ha of terrestrial harvesting, industrial fishing vessels focus on purse seine economic activities is also possible, as when an uptick in priority areas – for conservation. Of these areas, eight are fishing, shrimp trawling, and demersal fishing. Purse seine marine mammal watching conflicted with other marine uses described as being of “high” or “very high” importance. Only fleets primarily target Sardinops sagax (sardine), Scomber such as navigation and fishing, leading to Ecuador adopting about 37 percent of the priority areas are formally protected. japonicus (mackerel), Trachurus murphyi (horse mackerel), inter-institutional regulations on whale and dolphin watching Ophistonema spp (pinchagua), Cetengraulis mysticetus in 2014 (Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of National (crook), and various species of tuna, swordfish, and dorado. Defense, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Transport and Public Shrimp trawling mainly occurs on the continental shelf in Works 2014). areas with soft seafloors that are between two and 70 meters deep. Trawl fisheries target three species of white shrimp: Mineral and energy extraction Litopenaeus vannamei, L. stylirostris and L. occidentales. Demersal fishing targets species that inhabit—or occur close Unregulated mineral and energy resources extraction in the to—the ocean floor, which include corvina (Cilus gilberti), coastal and marine zone is a serious threat to biodiversity and grouper, conger eel, hake, and other flatfish and bottom fish. ecosystem stability. While this activity has been an important source of revenue for the country’s extractive industries— Aquaculture with Ecuador being a significant exporter of crude oil—its environmental impacts call for the responsible management Aquaculture—especially shrimp and tilapia farming—is these non-renewable resources to ensure the coastline’s growing rapidly in Ecuador, which is a world leader in the long-term sustainability. export production of white shrimp (P. vannamei). Shrimp farms are mainly located in coastal mangroves and are one of Offshore hydrocarbon exploration records indicate potential the greatest pressures faced by this ecosystem. The largest extraction points near the Gulf of Guayaquil, the southern areas devoted to shrimp farming are in Guayas (89,000 ha) coast of Santa Elena, and the north of Esmeraldas. The rest of and El Oro (28,000 ha), followed by Manabí (16,200 ha) and the coastline has not yet been sufficiently explored (National Esmeraldas (12,060 ha). Secretariat of Planning and Development 2017). The areas at highest risk of oil-spill contamination are Esmeraldas, Manta, the Santa Elena peninsula, and the Gulf of Guayaquil (including the Guayaquil and Bolívar estuaries and ports). Boats in the coast of Manta 2 The plan can is available online here: https://www.planificacion.gob.ec/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2018/07/Plan-de-Ordenamiento-del-Espacio-Marino- Costero.pdf 18 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 19 2 Target geography This marine spatial prioritization analysis focuses on Ecuador’s continental coastal zone (8,747.80 km2) and territorial sea,3 for a total area of about 206,000 km2 of marine ecosystems. However, areas beyond the target geography are also considered because the ocean is continuous and has ecological connections that extend beyond boundaries imposed by humans, including buffer zones.4 About this Figure 3. Map of target geography 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 10150000 10150000 APROVECHAMIENTO DEL POTENCIAL DE LOS OCÉANOS Coastal provinces PARA EL DESARROLLO SOSTENIBLE EN ECUADOR ELOY ALFARO SAN LORENZO Área de estudio analysis RIOVERDE Main settlements 10100000 10100000 Fuente de datos: Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica ESMERALDAS (MAATE, 2020), Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (SNAP, 2023), InstitutoGeográfico Militar (IGM. 2016). ATACAMES Base de referencia: ESRI, USGS, NOAA. Main coastal villages Esmeraldas 10050000 10050000 COLOMBIA Hydrographic MUISNE network 10000000 10000000 PEDERNALES Océano ECUADOR Base line Pacífico JAMA Limit of the 9950000 9950000 Territorial Sea of PERÚ SUCRE Manabí Continental Ecuador ± 9900000 9900000 PORTOVIEJO Sistema de coordenadas: 1:2.000.000 JARAMIJO WGS84 UTM MANTA Limit of the Zona 17 S Unidad lineal: metros 0 10 20 40 60 80 km ECUADOR Zona Económica Exclusiva Continental Ecuador continental 9850000 9850000 JIPIJAPA LEYENDA Contiguous Símbolos convencionales Zone PUERTO LOPEZ Manabí Provincias costeras Asentamientos humanos principales Territorial Sea of 9800000 9800000 ! ( Principales pueblos costeros Continental Ecuador Red hidrográfica SANTA Guayas ELENA GUAYAQUIL Delimitación espacios marítimos Santa DURAN 9750000 9750000 Continental Línea base SALINAS Elena Mar Territorial Continental Contiguous Zone Zona Contigua Continental Mar territorial continental PLAYAS 9700000 9700000 Zona contigua continental NARANJAL Aguas interiores Ecuador continental BALAO PUCARA 9650000 9650000 Golfo de Guayaquil EL GUABO MACHALA Service Layer Credits: Esri, Garmin, GEBCO, El Oro NOAA NGDC, and other contributors HUAQUILLAS SANTA ROSA 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 Source: World Bank elaboration based on data from the Ministry of the Environment, Water and Ecological Transition and Ecuadoran Military Graphic Institute 3 Ecuador adopted the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 2012. Under UNCLOS, the country’s territorial sea extends 12 nautical miles (about 22 km) from its low-water line. 4 A “buffer zone” is an area that is not technically under conservation protections but where human activities nonetheless influence the effectiveness of adjacent “core” conservation areas. Vista aerea del Faro de San Lorenzo, Manta, Ecuador, desde un dron 20 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 21 Data sources Methodology The analysis relied on the data obtained from the government • The database of EBSAs, which lists marine areas in need of Ecuador, development entities, and scientific researchers of protection identified during the ninth meeting of the The current spatial analysis followed these six steps: working in the country. These data sources include, but are Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological not limited to: Diversity (CBD)7 1 Priority ecosystem services for conservation, human development, and conservation were identified. • The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological • The mapping that Planetek Italia and Geoville conducted Transition’s (MAATE’s) spatial data infrastructure and in 2024 for the Gulf of Guayaquil and Esmeraldas, as 2 Relevant metrics relating to the identified priority ecosystem services were defined. Unified Environmental Information System well as up-to-date spatial information on mangrove and aquaculture ponds in Ecuador, both of which were • The Oceanographic and Antarctic Institute of the Navy’s developed by the European Space Agency Global Relevant and available cartographic data was compiled and analyzed in line with the criteria 3 identified in Step 2. Coastal Marine Atlas of Ecuador Development Assistance Programme in collaboration with the World Bank. • The cartographic base of the POEMC Despite this wealth of information, there is still a scarcity • The “Annual Mapping of Land Cover and Land Use in 4 Data was weighted in a spatial reclassification exercise to assess the importance of the identified areas. Ecuador” project of the MapBiomas Network of detailed georeferenced layers for marine habitats. The country has already undertaken several projects to strengthen marine data collection and analysis to address • The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) this knowledge gap. The information was integrated into a prioritization map that combines all the criteria in a way 5 that reflects their relative importance for conservation. Key Biodiversity Areas5 • The global and Pacific ocean information databases used as input for the MIGRAMAR project6 5 For more information on Key Biodiversity Areas, see https://www.keybiodiversityareas.org 6 MigraMar is the leading scientific authority on migratory species research in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. Read more here: https://www.migramar.org 7 List of marine areas in need of protection is available at: https://www.cbd.int/ebsa/ Humpback Whale jumping in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador 3 Marine spatial planning is a process that aims to achieve integrated, evidence-based coastal zone management that balances Ecuador’s coastal and marine economic activities with its conservation objectives to achieve the sustainable use of coastal and marine natural resources over the long term. Identifying, mapping, and prioritizing the country’s environmentally and economically important marine areas (spatial prioritization) is a key step towards an effective marine spatial planning process. 3.1 Classifying the selection criteria and mapping the data Ecosystem services can be classified into the following four • Aquaculture: An information layer indicating (i) the Spatial Analysis: groups: (i) provisioning ecosystem services are the natural locations of the 29 main marine aquaculture concessions goods and resources for consumption or use—both raw and (ii) areas of interest for possible future marine and processed; (ii) regulating ecosystem services refer to aquaculture (as identified in the POEMC) was developed. those ecological processes that benefit human health and Mapping and the environment; (iii) cultural ecosystem services refer to • Climate regulation and coastal protection: Information the non-material value and benefits derived from interacting layers showing (i) forest cover and (ii) land use (including with nature; and (iv) supporting ecosystem services are the mangroves, non-forest natural formations, agriculture and processes that underpin the other three ecosystem services. forestry, areas without vegetation, and bodies of water) Prioritizing were generated to enable the identification of areas For the purposes of this analysis, clear criteria were (mainly forests and mangroves) that act as carbon sinks, developed to help identify which ecosystem services should help regulate the water cycle, and reduce soil erosion. be prioritized under each ecosystem services category. Ecuador’s Blue Appropriate sources of spatial information data for each • Nature-based tourism: An information layer showing the ecosystem service were then identified. Using this data, the number of tourists that visited protected areas in 2023 following information layers (maps) were developed for each was generated to identify those protected areas that ecosystem services grouping: are the most vulnerable to the negative effects of mass Ecosystem Services tourism and those areas that benefit from more low-impact, • Biodiversity conservation: Information layers focusing high-quality, sustainable types of tourism. In addition, an on conserving biodiversity show: (i) Key Biodiversity information layer showing tourist beaches was developed Areas as defined by the IUCN and Ecuador’s nationally to identify areas of the coastline that are used for traditional declared protected areas; (ii) underwater geomorphology; (mass) tourism and those that experience occasional and (iii) important areas for potential communities of tourism, to identify those beaches that are negatively interest and species targeted for conservation, specifically impacted by mass tourism. eight species of marine mammal (including two species of dolphin); 16 species of fish; 8 species of molluscs; The availability and quality of spatial data used in this 5 species of cnidarians (corals and sea fans); four exercise will determine the accuracy of the final spatial species of crustaceans; 3 species of birds; 3 species of prioritization map, which is discussed in greater detail in the reptiles (including two species of turtle); and 5 species of following section. echinoderms (including two species of hedgehog). • Industrial fishing: These information layers focus on: (i) areas where demersal fishing takes place; (ii) areas of low- and high-intensity industrial fishing, (iii) areas of low- and high-intensity purse seine fishing; and (iv) areas of low- and high-intensity shrimp trawl fishing. • Artisanal fishing: An information layer indicating where low-, medium-, and high-intensity artisanal fishing takes place was developed. However, the reliability of this layer is limited due to a lack of current data on artisanal fishing activity. Aerial drone view of heavy density mangrove trees in the gulf of Guayaquil, Ecuador flying and looking toward some gated communities and houses. Blue-footed Booby, Ecuador Coastline, 24 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR Isla de la Plata Table 1. Values assigned to data reclassification for ecosystem services-based multicriteria spatial prioritization (continued) 3.2 Multicriteria analysis and spatial prioritization Ecosystem services Prioritization Spatial information Layer values Priority level Justification criteria used (information for conser- After analyzing the available data and mapping the priority Not all uses are valued equally when reclassifying. In layers) vation areas for each category of ecosystem service, each map (or some cases, such as artisanal fishing, a higher intensity Artisanal or Coastal and marine Artisanal fishing High activity intensity High priority Artisanal fishing depends information layer) was assigned a numerical value based on of the activity does not necessarily imply an incompatibility small-scale fishing areas with high intensity map (gillnet-line (value 2) on the conservation the priority level for that layer. The value assigned depends with conservation. In fact, areas with artisanal fishing are (gillnet and hook) artisanal fishing activity and spearfishing) of the environmental considering the number Average activity intensity Medium priority health of the habitats on the type of criterion, that is, whether it is conservation- considered important to sustainably manage and preserve of fishers, vessels, gear, (value 1) that support the targeted compatible use, such as areas with habitats of importance to the resources so that it can be maintained. Table 1 shows and target species. species. The approach to managing this activity biodiversity, or a conservation-incompatible or unfavorable the reclassification of all values from the information Low activity intensity Low priority should be to develop it in use, such as areas of high intensity of industrial fishing layers used for the mapping of each of the considered (value 0) a way that is compatible activity. In the case of incompatible use, higher intensity use ecosystem services. with conservation, using instruments that will be considered less favorable and, therefore, less of a facilitate its sustainability. priority, and a value of “0” (low priority) would be assigned to The layers were then integrated to produce a spatial In addition, this activity the layer. Layers with low-intensity unfavorable use receive prioritization map. This map highlights high-priority areas for takes place in the 12 kilometers where a value of “2”, implying a high priority for conservation. For conservation, based on their importance for the provision of the most important intermediate intensity uses, the assigned value will be “1”, multiple ecosystem services, including those that support values for coastal and corresponding to a medium priority. the country’s blue economy. This process is known as marine conservation are concentrated, multicriteria weighted overlay. and therefore special attention must be paid, in addition to its role Table 1. Values assigned to data reclassification for ecosystem services-based multicriteria spatial prioritization in the socioeconomic development of coastal communities. Ecosystem services Prioritization Spatial information Layer values Priority level Justification criteria used (information for conser- Aquaculture potential Coastal and marine • Shrimp ponds Areas occupied by Low priority Areas already occupied layers) vation areas marked for shrimp farms (value 0) by shrimp farms would shrimp aquaculture and • Potential areas for not benefit conservation mariculture development. marine aquaculture Areas of interest for Medium priority through increased Biodiversity Marine coastal Key biodiversity areas Identified key High priority Areas contain significant (mariculture) the development of (value 1) protection. However, conservation areas that are key Potential conservation biodiversity areas and (value 2) habitats or keystone in safeguarding and communities their area of influence in or threatened species mariculture areas of interest conserving ecosystems and species the marine environment (IUCN 2022). would benefit from in their natural state and Map of underwater (up to 1 kilometer [km]). management measures in maintaining biological geomorphology that ensure the diversity Areas with key High priority sustainable development species and zone (value 2) of mariculture compatible of influence (5 km). with the conservation of natural values and Areas with coral reefs High priority Rocky reliefs and environmental quality (value 2) elevated areas in the (Le Gouvello et al. marine environment 2017). Seamounts and canyons High priority may be associated with (value 2) communities of pioneer Climate regulation Natural areas with • Forest cover Forest coverage High priority Coastal forests and species that create carbon-capture and in coastal areas (value 2) mangroves act as Platform valleys Medium priority habitats that are used storage capacity. • Mangroves carbon sinks, storing and rift valleys (value 1) as feeding, shelter, and Mangrove area coverage High priority significant amounts breeding grounds for (value 2) of blue carbon, which many species (Rivera et contributes to climate Flat, plateau, Low priority al. 2015).6 change mitigation. and other areas (value 0) Coastal protection Coastal and marine Mangroves Mangrove area coverage High priority Mangroves play a crucial Industrial fishing Coastal and marine Industrial fishing High activity intensity Low priority Areas with high-intensity areas that buffer against (value 2) role as natural barriers, areas with high intensity maps (purse (value 0) use of industrial fishing waves and tides and attenuating wave and concentrations of seining, shrimp trawling, gear are considered Average activity intensity Medium priority prevent coastal erosion tidal force, significantly vessels, fishing ports, demersal fishing) incompatible with (value 1) and saltwater intrusion. reducing coastal erosion and fishing zones by conservation and and the vulnerability of gear and target species. their protection is not coastal areas to extreme recommended except in Low activity intensity High priority weather events. cases where the effort is (value 2) restricted. Nature-based tourism Protected natural areas • Visitation data for Protected areas where High priority The development of with public-use and protected areas public use is permitted (value 2) marine protected area coastal zones of (statistical data tourism depends on the high interest for only available proper protection and sustainable tourism. for continental management of these protected areas) areas, including activities Priority coastal zones High priority such as recreational • Classification of the diving, which benefits for selective tourism (value 2) coastline based on from conserving (1 km area of influence) tourist use. biodiversity. Where Coastal zones with mass Medium priority tourism reaches levels tourism (1 km area of (value 1) that may exceed the influence) ecosystem’s threshold to support this form of 8 These types of seabed are generally considered to be of medium or high conservation importance, yet there is little information on this. Following the Areas with nautical High priority land use, measures must precautionary principle, it is recommended to prioritize their conservation and further invest in studies to better understand their importance and the recreational activities (value 2) be applied to ensure biodiversity of the continental shelf. The cited study was carried out for the Bajo Cantagallo area, in the Machalilla National Park, south of the (diving and snorkeling) appropriate levels Isla de la Plata, where the presence of whales that use these areas as feeding places was certified. (500 m) of conservation. Source: World Bank 26 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 3.3 Priority conservation areas identified Figure 5. Spatial prioritization map with delineated priority zones to optimize marine and coastal resources for Ecuador’s blue economy The highest priority areas for Ecuador’s blue economy are those that simultaneously provide multiple ecosystem services. In 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 10150000 10150000 APROVECHAMIENTO DEL POTENCIAL DE LOS OCÉANOS this analysis, greater importance has been accorded to ecosystem services that support conservation objectives while enabling PRIORITY ZONES PARA EL DESARROLLO SOSTENIBLE EN ECUADOR Zonas prioritarias para la conservación the country’s blue economy to flourish. The weighting of ecosystem services was defined in line with agreed objectives. The FOR CONSERVATION 10100000 10100000 Fuente de datos: Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica results were presented to stakeholders for validation of the proposed priority areas for conservation. (MAATE, 2020), Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (SNAP, 2023), Instituto Geográfico Militar (IGM, 2016), Fundación Nazca (2006), POEMC (Senplades, 2017), Áreas Clave para la Biodiversidad Low priority (CBD, 2024), MAPBIOMAS (2022), Planeteck Italia, & GeoVille. (2024). Esmeraldas Figure 4 presents a spatial prioritization map for Ecuador based on this analysis showing low, medium, and high priority areas 10050000 10050000 for conservation to secure multiple priority ecosystem services, as identified in Section 3.1. Medium priority COLOMBIA High priority 10000000 10000000 Océano ECUADOR Pacífico Figure 4. Spatial prioritization map to optimize marine and coastal resources for Ecuador’s blue economy 9950000 9950000 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 PERÚ 10150000 10150000 APROVECHAMIENTO DEL POTENCIAL DE LOS OCÉANOS Manabí PRIORITY ZONES ± 9900000 9900000 PARA EL DESARROLLO SOSTENIBLE EN ECUADOR 1:2.000.000 Zonas prioritarias para la conservación Sistema de coordenadas: FOR CONSERVATION WGS84 UTM ECUADOR Zona 17 S 0 10 20 40 60 80 Unidad lineal: metros 10100000 10100000 km Fuente de datos: Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica (MAATE, 2020), Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (SNAP, 2023), 9850000 9850000 Instituto Geográfico Militar (IGM, 2016), Fundación Nazca (2006), LEYENDA High priority POEMC (Senplades, 2017), Áreas Clave para la Biodiversidad (CBD, 2024), MAPBIOMAS (2022), Planeteck Italia, & GeoVille. (2024). Esmeraldas Símbolos convencionales Provincias costeras 10050000 10050000 Medium priority COLOMBIA Delimitación espacios marítimos 9800000 9800000 Mar Territorial Continental Guayas Low priority Zona Contigua Continental 10000000 10000000 Mar territorial continental Océano ECUADOR Zona contigua continental Santa 9750000 9750000 Pacífico Zonas prioritarias para la conservación Elena Prioridad baja Prioridad media 9950000 9950000 Prioridad alta 9700000 9700000 PERÚ Manabí Golfo de ± 9900000 9900000 Guayaquil 1:2.000.000 9650000 9650000 Sistema de coordenadas: WGS84 UTM ECUADOR Zona 17 S 0 10 20 40 60 80 Unidad lineal: metros km Service Layer Credits: Esri, Garmin, GEBCO, El Oro NOAA NGDC, and other contributors 9850000 9850000 LEYENDA Símbolos convencionales 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 Provincias costeras Delimitación espacios marítimos Source: World Bank 9800000 9800000 Mar Territorial Continental Zona Contigua Continental Guayas Mar territorial continental Zona contigua continental Santa 9750000 9750000 Zonas prioritarias para la conservación Elena If the information layer showing the priority conservation It is important to note that the declaration of a marine areas as determined through the spatial prioritization and coastal protected area does not guarantee effective Prioridad alta Prioridad media exercise is overlaid with Ecuador’s existing nationally conservation of that area. Adequate management based on 9700000 9700000 Prioridad baja declared protected areas (purple lines on Figure 6), there updated management plans and regulated public use may Golfo de Guayaquil is a significant overlap between these two areas. This is to still be needed to ensure effective conservation, especially 9650000 9650000 be expected, given that the protected areas were delineated since all marine and coastal protected areas in Ecuador host Service Layer Credits: Esri, Garmin, GEBCO, El Oro NOAA NGDC, and other contributors based on their conservation values. However, large tracts of visitors and conduct activities that could exert pressure on 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 high-priority land and ocean remain unprotected, especially natural resources. in the Gulf of Guayaquil, around the Machalilla National Park, Source: World Bank and on the Esmeraldas coast. Several smaller, disconnected The priority areas that are not currently protected—the (i) Gulf patches along the coast and in El Oro are also not protected. of Guayaquil, (ii) Machalilla National Park, and (iii) the North When combined, the total priority area that is not currently Esmeraldas—are discussed in greater detail below. Because the priority areas are depicted as a continuous range, this map does not clearly identify high-priority versus low-priority areas. Clearer boundaries would improve the ability to develop and enforce rules relating to resource use along Ecuador’s protected totals 125,057 ha. coastline. To this end, the map was therefore reclassified into three clear categories: low priority (with a conservation rating of between 0 and 3 on a scale of 0 to 14); medium priority (conservation rating of between 3 and 6); and high priority (conservation rating of between 6 and 14). The resulting map (Figure 5) provides clear boundaries between areas with different priority levels. 28 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 29 Figure 6. Map of priority zones for conservation and marine and coastal protected areas Figure 7. National-level land cover of registered shrimp farms 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 AREA (ha) OF REGULARIZED SHRIMP FARMS 10150000 10150000 APROVECHAMIENTO DEL POTENCIAL DE LOS OCÉANOS PRIORITY ZONES PARA EL DESARROLLO SOSTENIBLE EN ECUADOR Zonas prioritarias para la conservación FOR CONSERVATION 30 10100000 10100000 Fuente de datos: Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica (MAATE, 2020), Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (SNAP, 2023), Instituto Geográfico Militar (IGM, 2016), Fundación Nazca (2006), POEMC (Senplades, 2017), Áreas Clave para la Biodiversidad Low priority (CBD, 2024), MAPBIOMAS (2022), Planeteck Italia, & GeoVille. (2024). Esmeraldas 25 10050000 10050000 Medium priority COLOMBIA Area (thousands of ha) High priority 20 10000000 10000000 Océano ECUADOR Pacífico Boundaries of 15 protected areas 9950000 9950000 PERÚ 10 Manabí ± 9900000 9900000 Sistema de coordenadas: 1:2.000.000 WGS84 UTM ECUADOR 5 Zona 17 S 0 10 20 40 60 80 Unidad lineal: metros km 9850000 9850000 LEYENDA Símbolos convencionales Provincias costeras 0 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2011 Delimitación espacios marítimos 9800000 9800000 Mar Territorial Continental Zona Contigua Continental Guayas Mar territorial continental Zona contigua continental Santa Year 9750000 9750000 Zonas prioritarias para la conservación Elena Prioridad baja Prioridad media Source: World Bank, based on data from the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investment and Fisheries. Prioridad alta 9700000 9700000 Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas Table 2. Total land cover of registered shrimp farms by province Área Natural Protegida Golfo de Guayaquil 9650000 9650000 El Oro Service Layer Credits: Esri, Garmin, GEBCO, NOAA NGDC, and other contributors Province Total land cover (ha) 250000 300000 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000 600000 650000 700000 750000 800000 Guayas 129,233.01 Source: World Bank El Oro 39,840.74 Manabi 15,467.79 Esmeraldas 10,887.24 Priority area: Gulf of Guayaquil Santa Elena 5,872.10 The Rios 814.02 As noted in Section 1, the Gulf of Guayaquil is one of two Supported by Conservation International and the Ministry EBSAs in the analysis area. The expansive shallow waters of Environment, Water and Ecological Transition, the study Total 202,114.9 and unique oceanographic dynamics of this mangrove-lined highlighted the potential value of establishing a marine estuary set the Gulf of Guayaquil apart from other marine ecological corridor between Playas Villamil National Source: World Bank, based on data from the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investment and Fisheries. environments in the area, making it key for supporting Recreation Area and El Morro Mangrove Wildlife Refuge— Ecuador’s most important fisheries—along with a wide variety an area that this analysis also identified as a priority zone for of species, especially phytoplankton. In 2022, the company conservation. Figure 8 illustrates the geographical expansion of shrimp increase in registered shrimp farms is only observed after Biótica conducted a study on sustainable marine spatial farm concessions, based on coverage data from MapBiomas 2008, likely due to delays in the official registration process. planning in the northern part of the gulf. The exponential growth of shrimp agriculture since 2009 for 1985 and 2022 (in light pink and magenta) and Planetek This suggests that many farms existed well before they (Figure 7) is posing a particular threat to the mangroves of Italia and Geoville (2024, in darker purple). As of 2024, appeared in formal records and would explain the apparent the Gulf of Guayaquil and Guayas River estuary.9 Guayas aquaculture farms may only operate on private land and mismatch between the actual expansion timeline and the and El Oro are the two provinces most affected, hosting about require a permit from the Undersecretary of Aquaculture and available data. 64 percent and 20 percent of the country’s total shrimp farm Fisheries Resources to do so. Planetek and Geoville (2024) coverage, respectively (Table 2). Management priorities identified for the Gulf of Guayaquil only includes data on these registered farms. The expansion of unregistered shrimp farmland is unknown. include developing tools to strengthen the protection of mangrove ecosystems by establishing agreements with According to several resources (CLIRSEN 2007; Lovatelli relevant sectors (including shrimp farming), implementing 1997, Montaño et al. 2005), the 1980s and 1990s were crucial effective marine spatial planning, and improving the decades for the growth of Ecuador’s shrimp industry, driven sustainability and co-management of artisanal fisheries for by high international demand and the adoption of intensive the conservation of fish stocks. 9 Data extracted from the Shrimp Farms of Ecuador - Geographical Delimitation 2022 dataset by the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investments and Fisheries, Quito, Ecuador, datosabiertos.gob.ec/dataset/camaroneras-del-ecuador-2022 production methods. Much of this growth occurred in the country’s coastal mangrove areas. However, a significant 30 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 31 Figure 8. Area converted to shrimp aquaculture in the Gulf of Guayaquil since 1985 Priority area: North Esmeraldas, Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve PRIORITY ZONES The Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve’s mangrove Management measures focus on preserving the area’s natural FOR CONSERVATION forests are critical for coastal protection and climate value while benefiting local communities, for example, through regulation. They also provide a habitat for a variety of birds, ecotourism projects and environmental education programs. Low priority mammals, and fish, including endemic and endangered The communities are also trained in sustainable management species, as well as a range of valuable ecosystem services practices, including monitoring the health of the mangrove Medium priority to local communities, who depend on the mangroves for ecosystem, reforestation, and implementing fishing High priority fishing and other economic activities. Cayapas-Mataje regulations to allow for the recovery of fish stocks. Ecological Reserve is threatened by human activities such Shrimp farm as deforestation, agricultural expansion, and aquaculture. concessions in 1985 Shrimp farm concessions in 2022 Registered aquaculture farms on private land in 2024 Source: World Bank, based on data from MapBiomas and Planetek and Geoville 2024. Priority area: Machalilla National Park around Isla Salango and Isla de la Plata Machalilla National Park and its surroundings constitute the The area provides ecosystem services for both artisanal only protected area in continental Ecuador that includes a fishers and tourists, making it susceptible to the impact these terrestrial zone and the adjacent coastal and marine area. activities may have on water quality and sensitive marine The terrestrial area has significant dry and humid coastal ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. Management priorities forests, as well as cultural wealth, with about 5,000 years of aim to limit tourist activity to within the ecosystem’s carrying human history. The marine area hosts the only coral reefs capacity and to improve the sustainability and zoning of uses, on the country’s continental coast and is known for its very including prescriptions relating to fishing gear. high biodiversity—including several characteristic birds and marine mammals—pristine beaches and coastal landscapes. Red Mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador 32 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 33 4 Ocean resources in Ecuador face significant challenges due to human activities that threaten the integrity of marine and coastal ecosystems. The first phase of this analysis highlighted the need for more effective, sustainable, and integrated management and used spatial analysis methods to identify priority areas for conservation. Objectives of recommendations Recommendations Based on this spatial analysis and prioritization exercise, a series of management measures adapted to Ecuador’s reality have been developed. These recommendations aim to achieve the following overarching objectives: Sustainably manage artisanal fisheries to maintain ecosystem health and ensure food and livelihood 1 for Sustainable and security for fishing communities. Develop ecotourism and recreational activities that are scalable, involve communities, and are 2 Integrated Ocean compatible with conservation objectives. Encourage local communities to participate in ecosystem conservation, especially the 3 conservation of mangroves to reduce coastal vulnerability to climate change. Management 4 Develop a marine spatial planning process that allows for integrated coastal zone management to balance the development of economic activities with the conservation of biodiversity and natural capital. Black Skipjack Tuna School in Galapagos Galapagos Islands: Freshly caught Tuna 34 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR Table 3. Proposed recommendations and supporting short-, medium-, and long-term actions Short-term actions (2030) Medium-term actions (2030–2035) Long-term actions (2050) 1. Explore the development and implementation of a co-management system for artisanal fishing areas in the Gulf of Guayaquil. Recommendations • Generate data and information by conducting • Design a participatory governance system for • Develop local capacity to conduct monitoring, a fishery census, mapping important breeding fisheries co-management based on experience control, and surveillance activities of grounds, and monitoring stocks artisanal fisheries. The following recommendations were developed in close consultation with institutional actors and are based on the • Develop a proposal for no-take zones and • Review fisheries regulations and the viability stock monitoring. outcomes of the spatial analysis and prioritization exercise. They are accompanied by a set of concrete potential of transferable quotas. actions designed to be implemented in the short, medium, and long term (Table 3), thus ensuring a staggered approach to marine conservation and the responsible use of resources. 2. Implement a management system based on the carrying capacity of critical areas in Machalilla National Park. • Conduct surveys to map coral reefs and • Conduct a study of ecological carrying capacity • Ensure continuous monitoring of coral reef Explore the development and implementation of a co-management system for artisanal fishing determine exclusion and permitted using geographic information system (GIS) tools health and evaluation of the impact of the 1 areas in the Gulf of Guayaquil. This approach involves the active participation of fishers in the anchoring zones • Consult with local communities, fishers, based on the updated mapping • Install ecologically friendly mooring buoys and implemented measures. management of natural resources, ultimately strengthening sustainable local fisheries management. and tour operators to gain their collaboration adequate signage and input. • Train personnel for patrols and monitoring and Implement a management system based on the carrying capacity of critical areas in Machalilla awareness-raising actions. National Park. To protect marine ecosystems from the impact of maritime mass tourism and recreational 2 activities, we propose a management system that regulates the number and type of activities in critical 3. Develop a mangrove management and restoration plan for areas that are under pressure due to land-use changes. areas based on the carrying capacity of those areas. • Consult with shrimp producers to identify • Develop training programs for producers on • Partner with nongovernmental organizations specific opportunities and challenges sustainable farming techniques and international agencies for funding and technical support to market the products of • Assess the feasibility of different livelihood • Provide technical assistance and ongoing sustainable blue enterprises diversification strategies in the local context, support for the implementation of new activities Develop a mangrove management and restoration plan for areas that are under pressure due to such as multi-trophic aquaculture and that slow down mangrove land conversion. • Encourage local sustainable blue enterprises land-use changes. This plan could specifically focus on areas where mangroves are being replaced 3 with aquaculture, this plan should include restoration and sustainable management measures that ecotourism, aligning them with the objectives of the SocioManglar program and strengthening branding that highlights the environmental and social benefits of the habitats they existing stewardship arrangements to maximize help conserve. balance local economic needs with the conservation of these vital ecosystems. environmental and economic benefits • Identify areas that require restoration actions and design a pilot project for participatory Establish the basis for marine spatial planning in Ecuador’s continental sea. This component restoration and monitoring of results. These activities should ideally be implemented in 4 includes developing guidelines for spatial planning that incorporate the principles of sustainability, conservation, and the rational use of marine resources to harmonize different uses of the marine space communities that are already under such custodial arrangements to reinforce their and ensure the protection of biodiversity. importance as a robust and tested governance framework. 4. Establish the basis for marine spatial planning in Ecuador’s continental sea. • Form a marine spatial planning working • Design and create a data portal within the • Update existing legislation to include group with representatives from various country’s Spatial Data Infrastructure to principles of ecosystem-based management government agencies, relevant economic centralize spatial and non-spatial information and strengthen institutional capacities for sectors, scientific communities, indigenous and for marine spatial planning and managing the investigation, monitoring, and law enforcement local communities, and other stakeholders to development of activities facilitate joint dialogue, planning, and • Implement mechanisms for the active decision-making • Develop seabed monitoring and mapping participation of coastal communities and programs based on the best available indigenous peoples in planning and decision- • Conduct data collection, analysis, and technologies, and secure funding for scientific making, recognizing and respecting their rights standardization based on international research to help map key ecosystem services. and traditional knowledge standards for spatial data management, such as those of the International Organization • Conduct vulnerability assessments and develop for Standardization and Open Geospatial comprehensive and area-based adaptation Consortium, and organize relevant strategies to protect marine ecosystems and training workshops coastal communities from the effects of climate change. • Revise the information contained in the Coastal and Marine Spatial Management Plan (POEMC) and update this measure based on the findings of the coastal area climate risk assessment currently underway • Create a roadmap to fully implement the POEMC. 36 LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY IN ECUADOR 37 5 References CLIRSEN (Centro De Levantamientos Integrados De Recursos Naturales Por Sensores Remotos, Center for Integrated Remote Sensing Natural Resources Surveys). 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