In the framework of the MSP Directive, France has divided its metropolitan maritime space in 4 sea basins ("façades"), each subject to a specific planning process. Between 2018 and 2019, Sea Basin Strategy Documents were published for each of the sea basins. This practice refers to the Sea Basin Strategy Document for the South Atlantic. It provides a detailed description of the existing situation (physical and biological aspects as well as human activities) as well as strategic objectives, in line with the National Strategy for the Sea and Coast (2017).
Questions this practice may help answer:
- What are the main issues concerning the French South Atlantic sea basin?
- What are the strategical objectives defined for the French South Atlantic sea basin?
- How is marine spatial planning applied in France?
Implementation Context:
As part of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008) and the Maritime Spatial Planning Framework Directive (2014), France has adopted a National Strategy for the Sea and Coast (2017). This national strategy is adapted for each sea basin via the elaboration of a planning document.
Aspects / Objectives:
The document provides a summary of the current situation in the South Atlantic Sea Basin in regard to the main activities and related socio-economic issues, research initiatives, as well as the state of marine and coastal ecosystems and associated issues. It highlights major challenges and draws a vision for 2030 with associated strategic objectives. The Sea Basin Strategy will serve as a basis for developing an action plan for the Sea Basin, and be delivered by 2021.
Method:
The Sea Basin Strategy Document has been drafted by the Sea Basin Council for the South Atlantic Coast, which includes representatives from the local maritime prefectures (préfécture maritime de l'Atlantique and préfécture de Nouvelle-Aquitaine), local authorities, coastal and maritime activities, and associations on the protection of marine environment. A public consultation was organized to seek the public inputs. Public opinion was also collected through the www.merlittoral2030.gouv.fr platform.
Main Outputs / Results:
The document draws a maritime spatial planning strategy at a sub-national scale. This is the first strategy on the maritime space that was developed in France at this scale. Along with the vision for 2030 and associated strategic objectives, the document provides a "designated-use map", which divides the French South Atlantic Basin into seven zones, corresponding to the areas with similar issues or potentials as a basis for spatial implementation of strategic objectives.
Transferability:
The document has been drafted for the South Atlantic basin in the framework of the French maritime policy, the practice is thus not transferable to another country.
Responsible Entity:
Ministry of Ecological and Solidarity Transition
Interregional Direction of Sea of South Atlantic