Marine Spatial Planning Roadmap

Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) is a strategic, ecosystem-based process that aims to organise human activities in marine and coastal spaces in a way that balances ecological, economic, and social objectives. This use case supports the development of MSP by providing a roadmap for integrating EO data into planning processes.

EO technologies offer critical datasets for MSP, including habitat maps, fisheries zones, shipping routes, pollution sources, and environmental trends. These layers can be used to delineate areas for conservation, sustainable use, development, or restricted access. Planners can assess conflicts between uses—such as tourism, aquaculture, and shipping—and make informed decisions about zoning and regulation.

The roadmap includes steps for stakeholder engagement, legal framework development, data integration, and monitoring. EO provides a cost-effective and transparent data source that ensures decisions are based on current and comprehensive information. The spatial insights generated also support scenario modelling and adaptive management, enabling planners to revise decisions based on environmental feedback or emerging pressures.

This use case contributes to long-term ocean governance. It supports national commitments to marine protection, climate resilience, and the sustainable blue economy.