Belgium BLUE CONNECT

BLUE CONNECT focusses on strict protection, restoration and co-management of Marine Protected Areas.

The BLUE CONNECT project has the overall objective of developing and implementing a Blueprint for conservation planning and management of marine habitats and ecosystems. Thereby, BLUE CONNECT focusses on strict protection, restoration and co-management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). It is a part of the EU – Horizon framework. With 24 partners from 13 countries, 12 pilot projects will be executed in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Black Sea and North Sea.

In the Belgian pilot (Vlaamse Banken MPA: Hinder Banks), the objective is to actively restore, part of the historically present, European flat oyster beds (Ostrea edulis). The Dageraad shipwreck was identified as suitable location for active restoration. Oysters will be settled on substrates, that have the same origin as the substrates that are naturally present in the Vlaamse Banken. The handling, transport, vessel loading, storage and reef material installation at sea will be tested. Emphasis is placed on monitoring during the reef development. Both standard and innovative methods, such as measuring the sound of the reef, will be used. A pressure and scoping analysis will be performed. Equally important is the stakeholder and citizen engagement by co-developing conservation objectives and measures. Local working groups will be established, empowering communities, and raising awareness through interactive activities to build shared ownership and improve marine site management.