Planning without borders : implementation of maritime spatial planning directive (2014/89/EU) in the adriatic ionian region

Over the last decade, in response to the increasing demand for maritime spaces and resources (UNESCO 2012), a growing attention has been paid to Maritime Spatial Planning, identified as a viable tool for promoting a rational allocation of maritime uses and for balancing the demand for economic development of maritime activities with the need to preserve the integrity marine ecosystems (Ehler & Douvere, 2009). Even tough spatial planning is not a formal EU competence, the European legislator has established the need to develop a common approach to maritime spatial management across all Member States (COM(2007) 575; COM(2008)791 final). In particular, with the entering in force of the new Directive on MSP (2014/89/EU) to be ratified within 2016, all Member States will have to identify competent authorities and to develop transboundary maritime spatial management plans within 2021.