Background document on kelp forests habitat. OSPAR 788/2021

Overview & Synopsis

This Background Document on Kelp Forest habitat has been developed by OSPAR following the inclusion of this habitat on the OSPAR List of threatened and/or declining species and habitats (OSPAR Agreement 2008-6). The inclusion of the feature on the list was supported by an analysis against the Texel-Faial criteria (OSPAR Agreement 2019-03), as presented in the case report (publication 358/2008). This Background Document provides proposals for action and includes measures that could be taken to improve the conservation status of the habitat. In agreeing to the publication of this document the OSPAR Contracting Parties have indicated the need to further review these proposals. However, the publication of this background document does not imply any formal endorsement of these proposals by the OSPAR Commission. On the basis of the further review of these proposals, OSPAR will continue its work to ensure the protection of Kelp Forest habitat, where necessary in cooperation with other competent organisations. This background document may be updated to reflect further developments or additional information that become available on the status of the habitat.