EcAp MED I
Implementation period: 2012 – 2015
EcAp MED I supported the initial implementation of the Ecosystem Approach roadmap in the Mediterranean region and laid the foundations for ecosystem-based management of marine and coastal ecosystems. The project contributed to the assessment of the state of the Mediterranean marine and coastal environment, including socio-economic aspects, and supported the development of ecological and operational objectives for the region.
The project also contributed to the establishment of the Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Programme (IMAP) framework (2016) and supported regional assessments such as the Mediterranean marine litter assessment and the development of policy frameworks, including the Offshore Action Plan.
By establishing the methodological and institutional basis for ecosystem-based monitoring and assessment, EcAp MED I created the foundation for subsequent phases of implementation across the Mediterranean region.
EcAp MED II
Implementation period: 2015 – 2019
EcAp MED II built on the achievements of the first phase by supporting the practical implementation of IMAP in Southern Mediterranean countries. The project assisted national authorities in establishing updated monitoring programmes aligned with regional requirements and strengthened national capacities for environmental monitoring.
Through targeted training, technical guidance, and regional cooperation, the project helped participating countries develop national monitoring programmes covering biodiversity, pollution, marine litter, coast and hydrography indicators. It also supported the creation of an IMAP Pilot Info System, enabling improved data management and reporting.
The project strengthened cooperation between science and policy communities and enhanced collaboration with regional and international partners involved in Mediterranean marine environmental monitoring.
EcAp MED III
Implementation period: 2020 – 2023
EcAp MED III further advanced the implementation of IMAP and supported the preparation of the 2023 Mediterranean Quality Status Report (MED QSR). The project focused on strengthening national monitoring systems and ensuring the collection of quality-assured environmental data across the Mediterranean region.
Key activities included expanding the IMAP Info System to cover all common indicators, improving integrated assessment methodologies, and strengthening cooperation at national, sub-regional, and regional levels.
The project also reinforced the science–policy interface, ensuring that monitoring results effectively support policy development and environmental decision-making in the Mediterranean region.
EcAp MED PLUS
Implementation period: March 2024 – February 2027
EcAp MED PLUS builds on the results of the previous three project phases and focuses on strengthening institutional and technical capacities in Southern Mediterranean countries to further implement the Ecosystem Approach and IMAP. The project aims to support progress towards achieving Good Environmental Status (GES) and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals in the Mediterranean region.
The project supports the revision and upgrading of IMAP at regional and national levels, the update of the IMAP information system, and the development or revision of national Programmes of Measures (PoMs) and National Action Plans (NAPs). It also aims to strengthen regional governance and cooperation and enhance the science-policy interface related to ecosystem-based management of the Mediterranean Sea and coast.
Through these activities, EcAp MED PLUS continues to advance regional cooperation and data-driven environmental management in support of a healthier and more resilient Mediterranean ecosystem.
Partnership
The EcAp MED projects are implemented by the UNEP/MAP Coordinating Unit together with MAP Components, including MED POL, PAP/RAC, SPA/RAC, INFO/RAC, and Plan Bleu, each contributing according to their respective mandates and areas of expertise.
Role of PAP/RAC
Within the EcAp MED project series, PAP/RAC plays a key role in supporting the implementation of the Coast and Hydrography cluster of IMAP. PAP/RAC provides technical guidance to Mediterranean countries on the development and implementation of national monitoring programmes for coastal and hydrography indicators, including land-use change, coastal artificialisation, and hydrographic alterations. The Centre contributes to the preparation of national IMAP monitoring frameworks, organises capacity-building activities and technical workshops, and supports the harmonisation of monitoring methodologies across the region. Through these activities, PAP/RAC strengthens the science–policy interface and helps countries generate comparable data on coastal pressures and changes, contributing to regional assessments and progress towards achieving Good Environmental Status (GES) of the Mediterranean Sea and coast.
