Baltic Sea Ecosystem-based Approach in Maritime Spatial Planning

The HELCOM-VASAB MSP Working Group has agreed on the procedurally oriented guideline which will help applying the ecosystem-based approach in maritime spatial planning (MSP) in practice, being also in accordance with spatial planning legislation in force in the Baltic Sea countries. This guideline fulfils, on schedule, the commitment made in the Regional Baltic Maritime Spatial Planning Roadmap (2013-2020), adopted at the HELCOM 2013 Ministerial Meeting and the VASAB 2014 Ministerial Conference. The ecosystem approach has been agreed as an overall principle for MSP.

The Guideline takes into account the relevant legal and policy context for the ecosystem-based approach, such as Helsinki Convention, HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan and the Joint HELCOM-VASAB MSP Principles, applicable to all Baltic coastal states and the EU, as well key EU requirements applicable to its members. Furthermore, it lists the key elements to consider when applying the approach, such as deploying best available knowledge and practice; precaution; developing alternatives; identification of ecosystem services; and so forth.