The report presents the results of the Pan Baltic Scope project focused on the monitoring and evaluation of MSP. The activity consisted of two parts. The first part included the development of a conceptual basis for monitoring and evaluation based on the literature on evaluation of spatial planning at sea and on land. The second part was based on practical work with Latvian and Polish MSP authorities to plan the monitoring and evaluation of their national MSP. The report also includes examples in Belgium and Germany.
QUESTIONS THIS PRACTICE MAY HELP ANSWER:
- How should MSP evaluation and monitoring be organised?
- What are the effects of MSP?
- What are the indicators for MSP evaluation and monitoring?
IMPLEMENTATION CONTEXT:
The report is developed in the context of the Pan Baltic Scope project and presents its results.
ASPECTS / OBJECTIVES:
The purpose of the report is to present different approaches to conducting and organising the monitoring and evaluation of MSP. The examples of Latvia, Poland, Belgium and Germany are presented to demonstrate various approaches. The report suggests that there is not a single correct way of monitoring and evaluation. It provides ideas and examples, as well as conceptual background and vocabulary for monitoring and evaluation of MSP.
METHOD:
The report provides the results of the Pan Baltic Scope project focused on the monitoring and evaluation of MSP. The work consisted of two parts. The first part was dedicated to the development of the conceptual basis for monitoring and evaluation. This included the literature review on evaluation of MSP and spatial planning on land, as well as on evaluation of broad-scale, multi-level and multisectoral policies that have a lot in common with broad-scale spatial planning such as MSP.
The study presents the findings on the conceptual basis for monitoring and evaluation. It discusses the challenge of determining the effects of MSP and proposes methodological and procedural solutions that can assist in dealing with this challenge.
The second part of the activity included practical work with Latvian and Polish MSP authorities to see how they are planning to monitor and evaluate their national MSP.
MAIN OUTPUTS / RESULTS:
The purpose of this report is to present different approaches to conducting and organising the monitoring and evaluation of MSP. The examples of Latvia, Poland, Belgium and Germany are presented to demonstrate various approaches.
The document ends with a list of recommendations.
- Recommendation on defining MSP objectives and indicators:
While broad objectives are needed to provide an overall direction for the MSP, sub-objectives are also needed to ensure successful monitoring. Those sub-objectives need to be realistic, clearly defined and verifiable. Qualitative and quantitative indicators for monitoring of the MSP should be linked to the sub-objectives, as well as to broader developments in the maritime sectors, marine environment and society.
- Recommendation on the processes of monitoring and evaluation:
To organise systematic expert and stakeholder assessment processes that can help reduce uncertainties of the outcomes of MSP and its influence on the maritime sectors, marine environment and society. A practical solution would be to form national MSP monitoring and evaluation networks, based on existing national working groups that support the preparation of the MSP plans.
- Recommendation on transnational exchange of experiences on monitoring and evaluation:
HELCOM-VASAB MSP Working Group or planning authorities in the Baltic Sea Region are advised to organise a workshop for all Baltic Sea Region countries with the purpose of discussing the first national monitoring outcomes and possibilities of cross-border cooperation on monitoring and evaluation.
TRANSFERABILITY:
Although the report is focused on the Baltic Sea, the recommendations provided can be applied by other countries for the monitoring and evaluation of MSP.
Responsible Entity:
Pan Baltic Scope project.
Funding Source:
The report is developed within the framework of the Pan Baltic Scope project funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF).