Glossary of Terms

MPA - Marine Protected Area

An area for which protective, conservation, restorative or precautionary measures, consistent with international law have been instituted for the purpose of protecting and conserving species, habitats, ecosystems or ecological processes of the marine environment.

EMS - European Marine Site

A SPA, or a SAC incorporates subtidal and/or intertidal areas.  They are referred to as "European Marine Sites".

Special Areas of Conservation (SAC)

A SAC is designated under the Habitats Directive as an area supporting rare, endangered or threatened species of plant or animal (other than birds) and important habitats.

Special Protection Areas

(SPA) designated under the Birds Directive. These areas help guarantee the appropriate resources and habitats required to ensure the survival or viability of bird species listed under the Birds Directive.

Natura 2000

Natura 2000 is an ecological network of protected areas within the European Union. The network is made up of existing SAC's and SPA's.

Intertidal

The intertidal zone (also known as the foreshore) is the area that is exposed to the air at low tide and submerged at high tide, for example, the area between tide marks. This area can include many different types of habitats, including steep rocky cliffs, sandy beaches or vast mudflats.

Stakeholder 

A stakeholder is a person, group or organisation that has direct or indirect stake in an organisation because it can affect or be affected by the organisation's actions, objectives, and policies. 

Terrestrial

Terrestrial means relating to or inhabiting land as opposed to sea or air.

Legislation

Legislation is written and approved laws. It is also known as "statutes" or "acts".