Abstract
UNEP/MAP in the framework of the Global Public Goods and Challenges (GPGC) Programme Area 1, Component 4: International environment and Climate governance, is implementing an EC-funded project, the EcAp MED III project under the title of: “Support to Efficient Implementation of the Ecosystem Approach-based Integrated Monitoring and Assessment of the Mediterranean Sea and Coasts and to delivery of data-based 2023 Quality Status Report in synergy with the EU MSFD”. Through assistance with the implementation of national IMAPs in the individual countries, the project outputs will support the release of a data-based 2023 Mediterranean Quality Status Report (2023 MED QSR). It will also help to promote harmonized assessment at the national level by developing national assessment factsheets. As a result, the EcAp MED III project is inextricably related to the implementation of COP 19 Decision IG.22/7 on IMAP, COP 20 Decision IG.23/6 on the 2023 MED QSR Roadmap and Implementation Plan, and COP 21 Decision IG.24/4 on the 2023 MED QSR Roadmap and Implementation Plan. Activity 1.3.1 of the EcAp MED III Project entails preparing a baseline report on the status of CI 15 monitoring. The outcomes of this research will help to publish a data-driven Mediterranean Quality Status report in 20 23. The Ecological Objective 7 (Alteration of hydrographical conditions) tackles long-term changes in the hydrographic regime of currents, waves, and sediments as a result of new large-scale developments with the ability to change hydrographical conditions. Marine habitats that may be influenced or disturbed by changes in hydrographic conditions are considered in common indication 15 “Location and extent of the habitats potentially impacted by hydrographic alterations” considers marine habitats which may be affected or disturbed by changes in hydrographic conditions (such as currents, waves, suspended sediment loads). As a result, the accompanying study establishes a baseline for the monitoring of CI 15 in Libya. It does not monitor a specific site or installation, but rather gathers information on the current situation in terms of monitoring requirements. As a result, the process for preparing the report was based on the existing guidance factsheet for CI 15, which specifies assessment criteria.