Engaging the Business Community

Despite the enormous economic role of the maritime sector in global commerce (shipping, offshore energy, fishing, mining, etc.), ocean planning processes are often dominated by government agencies, NGOs, and academics. This failure to engage business effectively is due to various reasons - some the fault of planners, others the fault of business itself. That being said, constructive engagement of industry in marine planning processes - and the support of ocean businesses for the eventual results - increases the likelihood of marine spatial plans being implemented and achieving widespread compliance. This primer provides an outline of the issues involved, and guidance for building trust and engagement.