HMC are experts in the sustainable management of our ocean. With years of collective experience, our team deliver best practice and identify innovative yet pragmatic solutions.
We enable positive change and work collaboratively, using our in-depth understanding to push the boundaries of ocean management using transformative, interdisciplinary, and inclusive approaches.
We work at all levels, from local communities to government ministers, with global reach and national understanding.
HMC supports governments, NGOs, financial bodies, and industry in the development, implementation, and monitoring of effective, sustainable, and resilient Blue Economy policy and planning. We do this by drawing on our extensive knowledge of marine policy, technical expertise in integrated marine planning and management, and existing networks to facilitate strategic and meaningful engagement with critical decision-makers. Collectively, this will help shape solutions which sustainably and effectively balance economic and social marine activity against the need to safeguard the marine environment.
In a rapidly evolving world where the delicate balance of aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems is...
HMC took the technical lead in assessing Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in Africa, aiming to understand its role as a tool for the conservation of aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems.
The study, conducted as part of the "Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity in African Blue Economy" project for AU-IBAR and funded by SIDA, delved into the status of MSP in West, Central, and Northern African nations. It identified gaps, challenges, and best practices, providing expert recommendations for advancing MSP in Africa.
In collaboration with the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), Howell Marine Consulting (HMC) undertook a comprehensive...
The aim of this project was to assess the effectiveness of the engagement materials and methods employed by the MMO in informing external decision makers about the utilisation of marine plans. Through surveys and workshops, HMC evaluated the existing methods, recommended enhancements, and examined the extent to which marine plans were incorporated into MMO decisions.
As a result of this project, HMC provided insightful recommendations for improving the engagement materials and methods used by the MMO to convey the usage of marine plans to external decision makers. Additionally, HMC's evaluation identified the extent to which marine plans influenced MMO decisions across various functions, while pinpointing obstacles that hindered their integration into decision-making processes.
HMC was commissioned by Defra’s Strategic Data & Evidence team to conduct a one-month project...
The aim of the project was to consolidate existing work, conduct expert interviews, and propose novel strategies for transforming marine monitoring practices to better meet our needs for sustainable ocean management. It aimed to understand previous work in this complex area, address evolving requirements, understand the key problems and make steps towards coordinating monitoring efforts across government entities to support evidence-based decision-making and sustainable management of marine resources.
The project successfully consolidated existing work, gathered insights from expert interviews, and proposed strategies for the transformation of marine monitoring practices. The outcome included a scoping report and roadmap for achieving a shared vision of the future for marine and fisheries monitoring, establishing a question-driven monitoring framework and building shared ownership of the challenge of delivering change. The recommendations aimed to contribute towards enhanced evidence-based decision-making and promote sustainable management of marine resources through improved monitoring systems that are coordinated and requirements-led.
HMC deliver cutting edge research on offshore energy policy and strategy. With our practical experience of the regulatory system of consents, licences, and permissions, we can provide industry and governmental partners with assurance that strategic approaches to planning and consenting are robust and viable.
HMC provided strategic advice to the Crown Estate on Round 4 offshore wind delivery in...
To provide expert, strategic advice to the Crown Estate on Round 4 offshore wind delivery in the UK.
Innovations in how offshore wind is delivered in the UK are identified and realised, ensuring that the UK’s ambitions for Net Zero offshore are delivered in a sustainable and compliant way.
HMC provided sector specific expertise to support a two year project to provide the monitoring...
To capture valuable learning from OWEAP, quantifying its impact and assessing its influence on associated policy.
To ensure the OWEAP is successful in tackling the dual challenges of expansion of offshore wind and the protection and enhancement of the marine environment.
HMC supported NERC and the Crown Estate in the development of a Partnership and Opportunity...
To develop a Partnership and Opportunity Programme to understand the Ecological Consequences of Offshore Wind (ECOWind), addressing critical gaps in scientific understanding regarding the complexity of interactions within the marine ecosystems that will be affected by the large-scale deployment of offshore wind infrastructure in the UK.
A developed programme that will provide evidence to inform future marine policy, marine spatial planning, and offshore wind deployment decisions.
HMC understands the importance of tackling the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss in an integrated and coherent way, and the urgent need for ocean-based solutions to climate change to deliver climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits for society, the environment, and the economy, from local to international scales. We’re dedicated to supporting governments, NGOs, and IGOs to integrate climate change as a critical, cross-cutting element of policy development, strategies and initiatives. Our work includes climate-smart fisheries, nature-based solutions, including blue carbon protection and restoration strategies, and climate-resilient coastal and marine management
Howell Marine Consulting (HMC) partnered with Rewilding Britain to spearhead a pioneering initiative focused on...
The primary aim of this project was to develop a marine rewilding work programme and advocacy strategy in collaboration with Rewilding Britain. This initiative aimed to promote the conservation and restoration of marine ecosystems, fostering biodiversity and ecological balance within UK waters.
Comprehensive Research: Howell Marine Consulting conducted extensive background research, providing a foundational understanding of marine rewilding and its potential impact.
Stakeholder Engagement: The project involved in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, fostering a broad spectrum of insights and perspectives.
Expert Workshop: An expert-led workshop facilitated a collaborative environment for knowledge sharing and strategy development.
Strategic Recommendations: The project yielded a set of strategic recommendations designed to guide the marine rewilding work programme.
Advocacy Strategy: An advocacy strategy was formulated to promote the adoption of marine rewilding practices and principles.
Action Plan: The findings were translated into a practical action plan, outlining tangible steps to support marine ecosystem conservation and rewilding.
Overall, the project successfully delivered a roadmap for marine rewilding, reinforcing the commitment to preserving and revitalising marine environments in the UK.
HMC provided ocean governance expertise to develop a strategic framework to guide both the development...
To develop a strategic management framework to guide the development and implementation of MPAs in Seychelles.
Effective implementation of management plans for Marine Protected Areas in Seychelles, including those designated under the Seychelles Marine Spatial Plan (MSP).
Working alongside UNEP, UNDESA and the FAO, HMC supported the development of the Small Island...
The aim of the project was to collaborate with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), UNDESA, and FAO to develop the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Flagship Programme. This initiative aimed to elevate the importance of marine and coastal ecosystem restoration within the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, focusing on strategic investment, governance changes, and support for restoration efforts in Saint Lucia, Comoros, and Vanuatu. The SIDS Flagship Programme serves as a global example of how SIDS can lead in marine ecosystem restoration, promoting sustainable development.
The project successfully led to the creation of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Flagship Programme in collaboration with UNEP, UNDESA, and FAO. This outcome directed funding and support toward marine and coastal ecosystem restoration efforts in Saint Lucia, Comoros, and Vanuatu, showcasing a model for sustainable development and emphasising the global importance of such initiatives.
HMC provides holistic advice to governments, professional bodies, NGOs, and industry across all aspects of fisheries management, to enable sustainable and innovative management which: maintains the viability of fisheries, documents and promotes their benefits at the social, economic, and environmental levels, and protects the marine environment.
HMC provided advice to Defra to understand the state of fisheries management in the UK...
To advise Defra in understanding the state of fisheries management in the UK EEZ and future monitoring requirements, by undertaking research focused on understanding and capturing policy, political, operational, technical, and financial needs of stakeholders including operational teams, government agencies, and enforcement agencies.
The identification of future technological solutions for UK fisheries management integrating viable innovative fisheries technology.
This project aimed to enhance the MMO’s understanding of the effectiveness and efficiency of its...
To enhance the MMO’s understanding of the effectiveness and efficiency of its control and enforcement actions and options in order to inform future actions and budget needs.
A set of recommendations for future development of fisheries compliance in England, underpinned by an in-depth understanding of English fishers’ attitudes to compliance.
HMC worked with project partners to review the approach and capacity of the Falkland Islands...
To understand the current Falkland Island Government’s approach and capacity for effective management of their finfish fisheries, and how fully the objectives of the Fisheries Ordinance were being met.
The identification of future management strategies, priorities, institutional changes and governance approaches to support profitable, sustainable fisheries in the Falkland Islands.
HMC understand the need for the transition to a sustainable Blue Economy to be inclusive, and for benefits to be equitably distributed. Taking into account societal impacts and considerations, including issues of gender equity and social justice, we ensure societal issues are embedded into sustainable Blue Economy plans, policies and interventions.
The Blue Planet Fund (BPF), funded by UK Official Development Assistance (ODA), will contribute to...
To support the design of the Blue Planet Fund, a key global initiative in managing our ocean and reducing poverty.
The development of interventions supported by the BPF that will reduce poverty and protect the marine environment across small scale fisheries, sustainable aquaculture, ocean management capacity and critical marine habitats for coastal resilience.
HMC worked with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) to develop a pioneering Sustainable Blue Economy...
To assist governments and decision makers in developing their own plans for transitioning to a Sustainable Blue Economy.
Countries globally will be able to move towards a Sustainable Blue Economy – one that delivers and embodies ocean-related Sustainable Development Goals.
At HMC, we are dedicated to advancing natural capital, and multiple capital, initiatives that prioritise the sustainable use and conservation of marine ecosystems. Through a multidisciplinary approach, we provide strategic guidance, research, and policy development, working closely with clients to unlock the value of our oceans while safeguarding their future. Our natural capital projects are designed to foster environmental resilience, support local communities, and promote a more sustainable blue economy for all.
HMC were commissioned to conduct a ‘thought piece’ for the MMO to explore how a...
To explore the concepts of multiple capital approaches and how these could be applied to better understand carrying capacity and trade-offs in the east marine plan area.
The project provided valuable insight into the five capitals approach and some immediate outcomes which could be applied by the Marine Management Organisation’s marine planning team.
At HMC, we’re committed to Sustainable Ocean Finance, a crucial pillar of our mission. Our dedication extends to pioneering financial mechanisms that support marine conservation and responsible economic growth. We collaborate with partners to develop innovative, sustainable, and resilient financial solutions, ensuring the blue economy thrives in harmony with our oceans. By bridging finance and environmental sustainability, we aim to build a brighter future for the oceans and those who rely on them.
The Blue Planet Fund (BPF), funded by UK Official Development Assistance (ODA), will contribute to...
To support the design of the Blue Planet Fund, a key global initiative in managing our ocean and reducing poverty.
The development of interventions supported by the BPF that will reduce poverty and protect the marine environment across small scale fisheries, sustainable aquaculture, ocean management capacity and critical marine habitats for coastal resilience.
WWF, together with Sky Ocean Rescue, delivered a campaign to set the UK on a...
To develop detailed policy requests, improving ambition on UK marine restoration, and identify ways to secure government interest, supporting the WWF to navigate the complex UK marine policy landscape.
A set of WWF-owned policy aims for UK Ocean Recovery which generate change through the identification of mutual interests aligning sustainable future aims to government objectives.