Governing MariParks effectively in line with the ecosystem approach
On Wednesday 4 March 2026, the Northern European Sea Basins (NESB) project organises an invitation-only workshop in Brussels focusing on the practical implementation of multi-use at sea through the MariPark concept. Organised back-to-back with the European Ocean Days, the workshop will explore key challenges related to the governance and management of MariParks, with a particular focus on aligning management approaches with the ecosystem-based approach.
Programme
Please note that the programme below is preliminary and subject to change.
| 1:00 pm |
Welcome and introductory presentations
|
| 2:00 pm |
Break-out sessions
Incentives and economic drivers will strongly shape who participates in a MariPark, how activities are designed, and whether users actively contribute to ecological objectives. This breakout session will explore which financial and non-financial incentives could motivate potential MariPark users, and how governance can balance economic value creation with ecological resilience to support an ecosystem-based approach.
In the context of MariPark governance, effective permitting frameworks and robust Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are essential to ensure that new developments align with an ecosystem-based approach. This breakout session will explore how current permitting processes address (or fail to address) cumulative impacts, and what governance innovations may be needed to support resilient and sustainable MariPark development. |
| 3:30 pm | Break |
| 4:00 pm | Plenary session |
| 5:00 pm | Reception and networking |
Practical information
This workshop is free of charge and by invitation only. Prior registration is required.
If you believe you should have received an invitation but have not, or if you have any general questions, please contact Bernd Herremans.
