Multidisciplinary perspectives in the use (and misuse) of science and scientific advice in marine spatial planning

It is recognized that a key goal of an ecosystem‐based management approach (EBM) is sustainable use of natural resources that provide ecosystem goods and services (Cooper, 2013). In a marine context, EBM considers marine ecosystem health in the management of human activities that affect marine and coastal areas. The intent is that ecosystem components that are critical to maintaining ecosystem structure, function, environmental quality, and ecosystem services are maintained at appropriate temporal and spatial scales. This will ensure that these properties and functions are sustainable over time. Thus, impacts of activities on ecosystem components need to be maintained at levels that ensure this sustainability.