Scottish Sustainable Marine Environment Initiative (SSMEI) Shetland Pilot

Description: The SSMEI Shetland project is one of four pilots in Scotland testing the concept of Marine Spatial Planning as a mechanism to achieve sustainable management of the marine environment.  It aims to develop an integrated and co-ordinated Marine Spatial Plan for Shetland.  The Plan provides guidance for the placement of different marine activities for the betterment of marine management and reflects public involvement, consultation and consensus.

Start Date and Duration: January 2006 to April 2010

Partners: The SSMEI project is led by a local steering group with representation from relevant industry, NGOs, conservation groups, the local authority and community councils.  Its funders are the Scottish Government, Scottish Natural Heritage, the NAFC Marine Centre, Shetland Islands Council and the Crown Estate.

Deliverables/Outputs: The Shetland Marine Spatial Plan and supporting documents available at www.nafc.ac.uk/SSMEI.aspx