A Finnish regional non-binding MSP approach: What are the consequences for integrating Blue Growth and GES?

The EU Maritime Spatial Planning Directive (MSPD) requires the member states (MS) to pursue Blue Growth while ensuring good environmental status (GES) of sea areas. An ecosystem-based approach (EBA) should be used for integration aims. However, MSPD does not specify how MS arrange their MSP governance, which has led a variety governance arrangements and solutions in addressing We analysed implementation Finland, identify conditions that may enable or constrain GES framework EBA. Finland is an expert-driven regionalized with legally non-binding status. results suggest this supports EBA MSP. Yet, unpredictability induced by MSP, ambiguity aims concept EBA, need economic viability coastal municipalities threaten consistency both spatial temporal terms. Developing towards future-oriented adaptive collaborative striving social learning could improve legitimacy its capacity combine GES. analysis indicates, delivery successful adhering principles permeate all levels governance. study turns attention legal as binding planning instrument role plays facilitating constraining predictability adaptability required