Sequential Hierarchical Intersection Layer (SHIL)
A scalable and reproducible methodology integrating ecological, environmental, conservation, and anthropogenic datasets into a unified spatial assessment framework.
Embedded Files
The Sequential Hierarchical Intersection Layers (SHIL) is a GIS-based framework designed to integrate ecological, environmental, and anthropogenic datasets into a single spatially explicit prioritization model. Originally developed for terrestrial ecological planning, SHIL is now being applied at Mediterranean basin scale to support Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), conservation prioritization, and ecosystem assessment.
Why SHIL?
Conservation planning increasingly requires the integration of heterogeneous datasets originating from different disciplines and spatial scales. However, many existing prioritisation tools require advanced programming expertise or complex optimisation workflows.
SHIL was developed as a transparent, GIS-based alternative that allows practitioners to integrate multiple datasets through a sequential intersection process, producing thematic indicators and composite ecological value maps suitable for environmental planning and decision support.
Figure_2.pngThe MEDSEAPLAN project
A Mediterranean-wide implementation of SHIL integrating marine habitat, biological, biogeochemical, conservation, fisheries, maritime traffic, and infrastructure datasets into a single decision-support database.
The model integrated publicly-available datasets from Copernicus, EMODnet and Global Fishing Watch to build an integrated database of 83 variables.
Interactive database explorer
MEDSEAPLAN Project | Data and Scenarios for a Sustainable Mediterranean Blue Economy
Financed by Xjenza Malta through the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership that is supported by the European Union through Horizon Europe
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse