Publication - Research and analysis
Blue Economy scenarios: final report
Scottish Government commissioned Waverley in December 2023 to create different scenarios for use of marine space in Scotland to help identify reasoned descriptions of alternative possible futures in order to explore how current and alternative development trajectories might affect the future.
Recommendations on next steps
181. In the final part of the workshop, we asked participants to identify
- What needs to be included in NMP2
- Triggers that will indicate government needs to be directive in driving NMP2 forwards
What needs to be included in NMP2
182. We have clustered suggestions together by theme. There are seven:
- Clarity
- Transparency
- Better use of data
- Prioritisation
- Nature based solutions
- Instruments
- Ownership
183. Clarity
- NMP2 must give clarity over marine spatial planning and facilitation of multi-use of marine space
- Clear setting out of resources for delivery and indication of responsibilities
- Clear implementation for every objective within NMP
- Clear monitoring strategies (spatial and sectoral)
- Transparency around decision-making and evidence-based decision-making
184. Better use of data
- Monitoring of MPA Network and making better use of data (encourage developer data sharing)
- Foster/encourage innovation to gather/collect/ review more joined-up evidence gathering/use
- Central/single marine data repository that is public domain/open to all
185. Prioritisation
- Spatial planning is a must. Prioritisation criteria are needed
- Investment/prioritisation of nature protection – both through MPA designation and monitoring and through active restoration of habitats e.g. seagrass
186. Nature based solutions
- Nature (space)-based solutions for adaptation e.g. blue carbon habitats
- Space for nature recovery and enhancement
187. Instruments
- Revision of marine consenting such that ALL regimes/sectors fall under a single national regime
- Develop green finance
188. Ownership
- Focus on bringing people along – social license areas
- Increased/clear community involvement in marine decision.
- Building ocean library and source to sea literacy
Triggers that will indicate government needs to be directive in driving NMP2 forwards
189. Participants identified 5 triggers
- When outcome intervention becomes clear (accelerate/decelerate as system requires)
- Ecosystem collapse despite action taken
- Unforeseen events (pandemics, war, etc)
- Conflict resolution to make national interest decisions
- Final say on national priorities (energy v food v health)