This open access book is the first comprehensive overview of maritime or marine spatial
planning. Countries across the globe are beginning to implement maritime spatial plans however
the authors of this collection have identified several key questions that are emerging from
this growing body of MSP experience. How can maritime spatial planning deal with a complex and
dynamic environment such as the sea? How can MSP be embedded in multiple levels of governance
across regional and national borders - and how far does the environment benefit from this new
approach? This book actively engages with the problems encapsulated in these questions and
explores possible solutions. Situated at the intersection between theory and practice the
volume draws together several strands of interdisciplinary research reflecting on the history
of MSP as well as examining current practice and looking towards the future. The authors and
contributors examine MSP from disciplines as diverse as geography urban planning political
science natural science sociology and education reflecting the growing critical engagement
with MSP in many academic fields. This innovative and pioneering volume will be of interest and
value to students and scholars of maritime spatial planning as well as planners and
practitioners.
