: Identifying Gaps in Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) in Achieving Socio-Economic Objectives Using SEBA for MSPD Framework: Northeast Atlantic Case Study - European Commission
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: Identifying Gaps in Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) in Achieving Socio-Economic Objectives Using SEBA for MSPD Framework: Northeast Atlantic Case Study

City
Brest
Country
France
Stage of project
Stage 2: R&D
Sea basin regions
Atlantic Ocean (including North Sea)
Categories
Community engagement - work with local communities to solve local marine and social challenges and with high social acceptance potential
Ocean conservation
Research related to solve marine and societal challenges

The objective of my project is to assess the effectiveness of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in the Northeast Atlantic region, with a particular emphasis on the Bay of Biscay, in attaining socio-economic objectives. Using the Spatial Economic Benefit Analysis (SEBA) methodology helps to overcome integration gaps across ecological, economic, and social aspects inside MSP. This tool visualizes socio-economic benefits, allowing planners to assess and communicate the impacts of MSP decisions clearly.

he primary beneficiaries are coastal communities, policymakers, conservation organizations and stakeholders involved in marine activities, as they gain insight into how MSP impacts various sectors like energy, tourism, fisheries and conservation. The project engages in activities including comprehensive literature review, mapping socio-economic impacts, stakeholder interviews, and generating accessible data visualizations to inform sustainable MSP practices.

Beginning in January 2025 and scheduled to finish by June 2025, the project’s implementation steps involve data collection, SEBA tool application, map development, and stakeholder validation. Among the contributors are my thesis supervisors, Dr. Jorge Ramos and Dr. Bertrand Le Gallic, who direct the policy analysis and research. The initiative aims to improve MSP's capacity for sustainable, inclusive and balanced ocean management.