About Ecosystem-Based Management (EBM)

Ecosystem-Based Management (EBM) is a management approach that:

  • Integrates ecological, social, and economic goals and recognizes humans as key components of the ecosystem.
  • Considers ecological- not just political- boundaries.
  • Addresses the complexity of natural processes and social systems and uses an adaptive management approach in the face of resulting uncertainties.
  • Engages multiple stakeholders in a collaborative process to define problems and find solutions.
  • Incorporates understanding of ecosystem processes and how ecosystems respond to environmental perturbations.
  • Is concerned with the ecological integrity of coastal-marine systems and the sustainability of both human and ecological systems.

The EBM Roadmap provided on this website provides a concise introduction to the concept and practice of EBM, a launching point for implementing EBM, and a touchstone for all EBM participants
and stakeholders.  It helps answer:

  • What are the defining elements of EBM?
  • How can organizations move EBM from concept to practice?
  • How can individuals contribute to EBM in their day-to-day work?

With the Roadmap, find information, case studies, methods, tools, and data to address the eight Core Elements of EBM.  Enter the EBM Roadmap.