A prerequisite for Planning Sites to develop scenarios and planning options is a robust science base for the prioritisation and zonation of MPA networks by measuring the spatial distribution of existing and newly developed EBSA criteria. MarinePlan will develop under WP2 (i) spatially explicit, quantitative metrics for EBSA criteria that are compatible with ecosystem-based, environmental state indicators (e.g., MSFD), (ii) guidance for the application of these metrics at various spatial scales, and (iii) the quantification of dispersal and movement corridors of different life stages (functional connectivity), biodiversity attributes, and species interactions. MarinePlan will expand on previous approaches to operationalize EBSA criteria to be compatible with biodiversity goals including the target of Good Environmental Status. Assessing the spatial connectivity between MPAs, WP2 will also propose spatially efficient zonation and avoiding competing sea uses where possible. Spatially explicit, quantitative measures of the seven EBSA criteria (uniqueness; special importance for life history stages of species; importance for threatened, endangered or declining species and/or habitats; vulnerability; fragility; sensitivity or slow recovery; biological productivity; biological diversity; naturalness) will be established and quantitatively linked to population- and ecosystem dynamics which, in turn, may affect the capacity to supply marine ecosystem services.