The research mission "Schutz und nachhaltige Nutzung mariner Räume” (Protection and Sustainable Use of Marine Spaces) of the German Alliance for Marine Research DAM investigates the potential ecological, economic and social impacts of the use and pressures on marine spaces and the legal framework to provide society and decision-makers in politics, industry and authorities with scientifically sound advice and socially reflected options for the design of use- and protection-concepts. Furthermore, it will also inform the public about impacts of human uses and pressures on ecosystems and potential future developments and management options. The DAM MISSION includes three thematic areas: (I) concepts to reduce the impacts of anthropogenic pressures and uses on marine ecosystems and biodivers