Principle 7: The ecosystem approach should be
undertaken at the appropriate spatial and temporal
scales.
Rationale:
The approach should be bounded by spatial and
temporal scales that are appropriate to the objectives.
Boundaries for management will be defined
operationally by users, managers, scientists and
indigenous and local peoples. Connectivity between
areas should be promoted where necessary. The
ecosystem approach is based upon the hierarchical
nature of biological diversity characterized by the
interaction and integration of genes, species and
ecosystems.