Relationships between two kinds of MSP in China

Honghao Tang,Ruoyan Feng,Chen Ma,Lingling Zhou,Qi Yue,Wen Wu,Chen Wang,Jing Yu

doi:10.1108/maem-12-2019-0013

Abstract

PurposeThe major marine functional zoning plan (MMFZP) and marine functional zoning (MFZ) are two important kinds of marine spatial planning (MSP) in China. Their developing and implementation are integral to rational marine utilization and sustainable marine development. The purpose of this research is to study how these two kinds of MSP work in coordination in China.Design/methodology/approachThis paper reviewed the present status of MSP research in China and abroad and presented a comparative study of the MMFZP and MFZ from different aspects, analyzing the relationship between the two.FindingsThe study found obvious differences between the MMFZP and MFZ, with respect to their concept and connotation, purpose and goal, as well as zoning methods and zoning functions. MFZ provides reference with respect to data, zoning methods and partial zoning results for the MMFZP, which in turn takes measures for addressing issues faced by MFZ and promotes the national MSP work.Originality/valueIn the process of developing and implementing the two zoning plans, this paper emphasizes the necessity to strengthen data sharing, reference of zoning techniques and coordination in zoning work, which will help to improve China's marine spatial management.

Highlights

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is an effective tool for resolving conflicts between various human activities and marine ecological protection work
This study aims at providing references for scientific developing, reasonable implementation and effective cooperation between the major marine functional zoning plan (MMFZP) and marine functional zoning (MFZ) to ensure the rational use of marine space and promote the sustainable development of marine areas
After reviewing the domestic and foreign statuses of research on MSP, this paper has pointed out their deficiencies and analyzed the necessity of our research

Summary

Introduction

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is an effective tool for resolving conflicts between various human activities and marine ecological protection work. It is an effective means for multipurpose marine management (Zhang, 2011). The major marine functional zoning plan (MMFZP) and marine functional zoning (MFZ) are two important kinds of MSP frameworks that are being presently implemented in China. This study aims at providing references for scientific developing, reasonable implementation and effective cooperation between the MMFZP and MFZ to ensure the rational use of marine space and promote the sustainable development of marine areas. The initial concept of MSP and one of its primary tools, ocean zoning has attracted the attention of international and national governments and nongovernmental organizations in developing marine protected areas (MPAs).

The status of foreign research on marine spatial planning

Conclusion