An integrated framework for Maritime Spatial Planning

Abstract

The Directive 2014/89/EU of the European Parliament and Council for "establishing a framework for Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP)", should be adopted into our national law system within two years of the date of entry into force. The competent authorities for its implementation should be designated and maritime spatial plans should be established as soon as possible, and at the latest by 31 March 2021. The directive aims to promote the sustainable development of marine areas and the sustainable use of marine resources. This report examines the key issues that are expected to arise during the establishment and implementation of an integrated framework for MSP. Additionally it identifies and specifies the principles that are described by MSP, based on the Roadmap for MSP (2008), the Directive 2014/89/EU for “establishing a framework for the MSP” and the Framework Directive 2008/56 / EU for Marine Strategy. Furthermore, it presents the elements of MSP in Greek spatial planning system. Finally it is attempted to investigate the criteria for the integration of MSP in the currently Greek spatial planning system, to examine the priority issues and basic fields of the methodological approach. The assurance of the coherence between terrestrial and maritime space with specific terms and the management of their relations with other sectoral policies that affect the sea (tourism, energy, shipping, maritime transport, etc.) are the key challenges that cannot be ignored despite the major organizational and political issues that will undoubtedly arise.