Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP)

• Understand the principles and importance of MSP for sustainable ocean use.
• Identify key marine sectors (shipping, fisheries, offshore energy, marine conservation, tourism) and their spatial conflicts.
• Explore international MSP frameworks and guidelines (UNESCO, EU MSP Directive, IOC-UNESCO MSP Global Initiative).

2. GIS and Remote Sensing for Marine Spatial Planning

• Collect and integrate bathymetric, hydrographic, and oceanographic data.
• Use GIS mapping and spatial analysis for marine zoning.
• Apply satellite imagery and remote sensing techniques for habitat and resource mapping.

3. Stakeholder Engagement and Conflict Resolution in MSP

• Identify stakeholder groups in marine resource management.
• Apply participatory GIS (PGIS) and scenario planning tools for decision-making.
• Develop strategies to resolve spatial conflicts between marine industries.

4. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Marine Development

• Understand EIA principles and regulatory requirements in offshore projects.
• Learn about EIA processes, from screening to decision-making.
• Apply risk-based approaches to assess environmental impacts of marine infrastructure.

5. Impact Assessment for Marine and Coastal Ecosystems

• Evaluate cumulative impacts on marine biodiversity and fisheries.
• Assess coastal erosion, pollution, and habitat degradation risks.
• Implement ecosystem-based management (EBM) approaches.

6. Climate Change and MSP Adaptation Strategies

• Model sea-level rise and climate-related risks in MSP.
• Integrate climate resilience and adaptation measures into planning.
• Assess marine carbon sinks and blue carbon strategies.

7. Policy, Legislation, and Governance in MSP & EIA

• Ensure compliance with UNCLOS, CBD, EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive, and national MSP laws.
• Develop cross-border and transboundary MSP cooperation frameworks.
• Align MSP and EIA policies with global sustainability goals (SDGs, Paris Agreement).

8. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world MSP and EIA projects in offshore energy, aquaculture, and marine protected areas.
• Conduct hands-on GIS and impact assessment exercises.
• Develop a marine spatial plan and environmental impact assessment report for a selected case study.

Target Audience

• Marine spatial planners and coastal zone managers
• Environmental impact assessment (EIA) professionals
• GIS and remote sensing specialists
• Marine biologists and ecologists
• Energy and offshore infrastructure developers
• Government regulators and policymakers