Competition for Maritime Space (MSP) - as regards renewable energy equipment, aquaculture and other uses - has highlighted the need for a more consistent management of our waters. Maritime spatial planning is a cross-border, intersectoral activity, ensuring that human activities at sea are carried out efficiently, safely and sustainably. That is why the European Parliament and the Council has adopted legislation to create a common framework for maritime spatial planning in Europe.
The aim of the study is to quantify the economic impact of Maritime Spatial Planning in order to assess its contribution to the blue economy. The overall aim of the study is to assess the extent to which MSP is of benefits to specific sectors of the blue economy, incorporating the results into relevant EU policies and supporting those authorities in charge of MSP implementation. This study seeks to: 1) examine the evidence of effects deriving from the current state of MSP implementation, with a focus on economic effects; and 2) provide additional information to member States on how to maximise the benefits of MSP. The study is conducted by COGEA in partnership with CETMAR, Poseidon, Seascape Belgium and the University of Vigo.