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Report of the FAO Workshop on the Global Database for Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems, Rome, 7-9 May 2014

Year of publication 2014

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 49 p.

Author Fisheries and Aquaculture Economics and Policy Division

Product type Book (series)

ISBN 978-92-5-108638-4

Series title FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Report

Series number R1093

Edition 1

Synopsis (short abstract) This is the “Report of the FAO Workshop on the Global DataBase for Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems”, which was held at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, from 7 to 9 May 2014. The workshop was organized in response to the need for implementation and development of a global database for vulnerable marine ecosystems (VMEs), following an invitation from United Nations General Assembly and a recommendation from FAO’s Committee on Fisheries. The FAO Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems DataBase (VME DataBase) was developed through a consultative process with the first meeting on the VME database being held in Rome, Italy, in December 2011, which developed the framework for its development. The main objectives of this most recent workshop were to review the functionality of the Beta 1 version and submitted information, and to develop a plan with the regional bodies that have management responsibilities for deep-sea species to finalize and release the VME DataBase including the identification of further n eeds and plans for future developments. Preparation for the workshop involved prior collaboration with regional fisheries bodies on the DataBase. Comments were received through D-Groups and a circulated questionnaire. The workshop was attended by representatives of the regional bodies with the competence to manage deep-seas fisheries and independent experts present in their personal capacity. The workshop was divided into five sessions: 1: Introduction to VME DataBase and possible future “portal ”; 2: Reviews and detailed discussions; 3: Regional input, approval and information; 4: Conclusions and list of actions; and 5: Policies and future priorities. Main recommendations were agreed upon that pave the way for the further development of the VME DataBase. In particular, it was agreed to release the VME DataBase by mid-September 2014 with essential modifications requested during the workshop implemented, and content validated by the partner data providers concerned.

Cite this content as:

FAO. 2014. Report of the FAO Workshop on the Global Database for Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems. Rome, 7–9 May 2014. FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Report No. 1093. Rome. 36 pp.

Language English

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