Model instruments for marine biodiversity policy : a quick scan

The Netherlands Envrionmental Assessment Agency (PBL) developed several biodiversity models for the terrestrial environment to support policy making and evaluation. For the marine environment currently such modelling instruments are lacking. This report gives an overview of modelling instruments that are developed for marine biodiversity or its components. Next to this overview also an overview of marine biodiversity policies and their objectives is given. Modelling instruments are discussed in the context of their applicability for policy targets and their scientific pros and cons. Moreover, an overview of models developed within IMARES is given as well as an in-depth discussion on the food web model Ecopath with Ecosim, a model targeted by PBL as high potential.