Acknowledgements

The development and success of the classification has only been possible through the considerable input and tremendous enthusiasm of a wide variety of people. Expertise from scientific and conservation management perspectives, with international through to local standpoints, and with views on both general philosophies and practical considerations have been essential to ensure the classification has developed as a robust scientific but practical tool for marine nature conservation and environmental management. We are very grateful to all those involved, for both the many positive comments which have encouraged us and the criticisms which have helped to sharpen the end product.