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Climate change and marine spatial planning: policy brief

UNESCO/IOC

Abstract:

As a changing climate alters ocean conditions, the redistribution of marine ecosystem services and benefits will affect maritime activities and societal value chains. Mainstreaming climate change into Marine/Maritime Spatial Planning will allow for improved preparedness and response, as well as reduced vulnerability of marine systems. The integrative ocean governance process of MSP may effectively support the ‘think globally, act locally’ slogan, which is an integral part of climate action, and may function as a switchboard for mitigation, adaptation and sustainable development objectives.

Sea Basin(s):
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Baltic Sea
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North Sea
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Atlantic Ocean
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West Mediterranean
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East Mediterranean
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Black Sea
Application in MSP:
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Unknown effect
Type of Issue:
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Ecosystem-based approach
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Resilience to climate change
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Stakeholders
Type of practice:
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Guidance
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Other
Stage of MSP cycle:
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Vision and aims
Cross-border / trans-national aspect:
Yes
Coherence with other processes:
Renewable Energy Directive
Key words:
climate change adaptation
climate change mitigation
Marine Protected Areas
nature-based solution
stakeholder
Source / Links:

UNESCO-IOC. 2021. MSPglobal Policy Brief: Climate Change and Marine Spatial Planning. Paris, UNESCO. (IOC Policy Brief no 3)

Questions this practice may help answer:

  • How can MSP contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation?
  • How to involve key stakeholders when tackling climate change?
  • What is the role of Marine Protected Areas and nature-based solutions?

Implementation Context:

This policy brief was drafted by the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission in the framework of the MSP Global initiative.

Aspects / Objectives:

This paper aims to provide insights on the integration of climate change issues and challenges into marine spatial planning initiatives and highlights the concept of "climate-smart MSP".

Method:

This document is based on a bibliography of scientific literature as well as range of practices and initiatives around the world.

Main Outputs / Results:

This policy brief provides recommendations for decision-makers to encourage the integration of climate change concerns in MSP approaches. It also highlights how MSP can help tackle climate change as it can be a way to implement the "think globally, act locally" slogan through mitigation and adaptation actions at local level.

Transferability:

This document is transferable to any MSP initiative.

Responsible Entity:

UNESCO/IOC

Costs / Funding Source:

UNESCO/IOC