Adaptation to change in the North Sea area: Maritime spatial planning as a new planning challenge in times of climate change

Abstract: Impacts of climate change in the North Sea region include system changes such as rising water temperatures, increasing sea level, ocean acidi-cation, an increase in extreme weather events, increased storm surges, and shifts in species composition. A further challenge for the North Sea region stems from new economic sectors such as offshore wind energy. In this context, Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) gains increasing importance as a tool for integration of sectors and interests and for keeping the balance between sea use and environmental protection. The current experience with MSP in North Sea countries can offer important contextual insights for future climate adaptation governance.