Integrating tools to assess changes in semi-enclosed marine systems

Semi-enclosed marine systems (SEMSs) are aff ected by natural processes and their vari-ability, by climate change and sea level rise, and by a multitude of human activities. Th is chapter discusses and reviews the available multidisciplinary integrating tools that are available to advance our understanding of the complex dynamics of and interactions within SEMSs. We identify major components of a conceptual framework for an inte-grative approach, which takes into account interactions between, for example, an aquatic system and its adjacent land ecosystems, and between local people and ecosystems, and local and international markets. We argue that the development of a comprehensive conceptual framework is a major step but only an initial one. Interactions among the various components are relatively well known in qualitative terms. Th e real scientifi c challenge occurs when the concepts have to be implemented in quantitative models. Th e results of integrative modeling can serve the scientifi c community, as well as decision makers and other stakeholders. Th e integrated tools described here should help to shape and develop policies designed to solve the problems of SEMSs.

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