A general framework for indicator design and use with application to the assessment of coastal water quality and marine protected area management

Environmental management decisions based upon indicators are the end point of a process involving stakeholders and scientists. These steps should be explicit and follow a chronology. This paper presents a general framework for the design and use of management-oriented indicators, integrating management questions and performance criteria. We first examined the desirable characteristics of indicators aimed at providing decision-support for marine environmental management. Ideally, one should select the indicator that guarantees a safe and unambiguous decision leading to the appropriate measures in terms of regulation, remediation or control. In the present study, indicators are assessed according to two criteria: relevance and effectiveness. Relevance encompasses sensitivity and the existence of quantitative reference values, thereby allowing the selection of potential indicators. Effectiveness is the ability of the indicator to reach its predefined targets based on optimal (or at least improved) data collection protocols. The framework is illustrated by applying it to the European Water Framework Directive and to the Marine Protected Area management contexts.

Research highlights
► We propose a general framework for the design and use of management-oriented indicators.
► Relevance and efficiency are the two indicator performance criteria to be assessed successively.
► A clear linkage is established between management objectives and indicator performance criteria.
► Stakeholders-scientists dialogue is crucial for optimal indicator development and use.