MSP Library

This page presents an overview of the key documents outlining what MSP is and how the process might be initiated and managed. A short introduction to MSP can be found here, along with a Glossary defining the most relevant concepts.

Related Newsletters

Project Marine Newsletters, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Ireland

Documents

The Ecosystem Approach in Ocean Planning and Governance
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'MSP - Past, Present, Future'
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'Cross-border consultation on Maritime Spatial PlansCross-border consultation on Maritime Spatial Plans'
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'Addressing conflicting spatial demands in MSPAddressing conflicting spatial demands in MSP'
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The blue economy Overview and EU policy framework
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​Study to support investment for the sustainable development of the blue economy
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Infographic of MSP in the EU
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Videos

Definitions

''Maritime spatial planning means a process by which relevant Member State’s authorities analyse and organise human activities in marine areas to achieve ecological, economic and social objectives'‘
Source: Art. 3 of the EU Directive on MSP (2014/89/EU)

''The public process of analyzing and allocating the spatial and temporal distribution of human activities to achieve ecological, economic, and social objectives that are usually specified through a political process.”
Ehler & Douvere 2007, “Visions for a Sea Change”, UNESCO/IOC