The Climate-Smart MSP Framework to Support Biodiversity Objectives

Momentum behind climate-smart Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) is growing. It is a powerful vehicle for promoting ecosystem protection and climate action, applying adaptive approaches to ensure that planning remains relevant in a changing climate. It plays a role in addressing both the climate and biodiversity crises. A review of the current landscape of climate-smart MSP practices in Europe is essential to identify good practices and channel progress towards effective implementation across European seas. Existing literature and assessment tools are relatively broad and conceptual, and as of yet, there is no systematic way to assess if marine spatial plans are climate-smart. Here, we present a detailed and comprehensive framework to assess the extent to which MSP is climate-smart to support the long-term conservation of marine biodiversity. Application of this framework by planners and researchers can accelerate the implementation of climate-smart, biodiversity-inclusive planning in Europe and around the world.