Identify question/ theme/ objective
Based on the purpose (cf. "Define purpose") and risks and opportunities (cf. "Identify risks and opportunities") identified in the previous steps, this step entails identifying (a) specific question(s), theme, or objective that the assessment aims to address, and builds the foundation for a suitable research design and assessment. Within this step diverse pathways, solutions, and strategies for achieving transformative change could be explored (e.g. through scenario development that include futures that diverge from current trajectories and inspire to envision transformative outcomes). Building upon the identified stakeholders and defined engagement strategy, questions and objectives need to be discussed, developed, and agreed upon in an iterative and inclusive process.
SELINA Guidance
Relevant non-SELINA material
Justice
Link to Justice
This step is justice-sensitive because the way questions are framed determines whose concerns are addressed, whose knowledge is legitimised, and whether existing inequities are reinforced or challenged in an ecosystem assessment process.
Dimensions addressed
Recognitional: reflect the variety of knowledge systems, values, and worldviews; adapt to language, technical, and communication needs;
Participatory: Guarantee that all groups can shape questions through deliberative forums; prevent dominance of technical or institutional actors; co-define priorities inclusively.
Distributive: ensure questions account for different vulnerabilities, risks, capacities, and opportunities across groups.
Why this matters
Provides a fair foundation for the whole assessment.
Ensures outputs respond to diverse concerns, not just those of dominant stakeholders.
Supports transformative outcomes by embedding plurality into core objectives.
Stakeholder Engagement
Crosslink toTNFD’s LEAP Framework
Fits with the scoping phase of the LEAP framework. This scoping phase largely draws on gaining internal high-level support of management and aims to identify relevant aspects of business models and value chains in addition to setting parameters and identify high level priority setting of time and resources. & Also Links to L1 (span and business model and value chain) of the LEAP framework. L1 focuses mainly on defining relevant sectors and value chains of the direct operations as a fundament for the interaction with a local ecosystem. This is where business nature meets business and therefore is part of identification of focus