Opportunities and constraints of the institutional framework for the implementation of ecosystem-based management: The case of the Chilean coast

The implementation of ecosystem-based management usually develops from existing institutional and governance arrangements in a given area. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the institutional framework of a region or country to assess whether this framework is compatible and whether it will promote or potentially hinder the implementation of new management strategies. This paper explores the possibilities and constraints of institutional frameworks (represented by legislation) concerning the possible implementation of ecosystem-based management of the Chilean coast. We evaluated the functional fit between a conceptual ecosystem defined by stakeholders (and based on ecosystem services, threats and uses/activities) and Chilean legislation related to coastal and marine resource planning and management. First, we measured the functional fit between the defined ecosystem and legislation through a quantitative analysis based on text revision and network analysis. Second, we evaluated different management, conservation and planning instruments existing in Chilean legislation, with respect to their suitability for the implementation of ecosystem-based management. We found that Chilean legislation rarely accounts for relationships defined between the different components of the ecosystem model. We observed low functional fit potential and many gaps in legislation. However, we found that certain existing instruments in the current legislation can be used as a foundation for implementing management based on the principles and criteria of ecosystem-based management (e.g., Multiple-Use Coastal Marine Protected Areas).