In a significant move towards sustainable maritime development, France has officially adopted its National Sea and Coastal Strategy.
Strategic Objectives and Priorities of the SNML
On June 11th, a decree dated June 10, 2024, was published, formally adopting the National Sea and Coastal Strategy (Stratégie Nationale pour la Mer et le Littoral, or SNML) for a six-year span from 2024 to 2030. As a reference framework for all public policies concerning the sea and coastline, this second edition of the SNML, following the 2017-2023 version, outlines major strategic planning directions for maritime and coastal areas, focusing on four main priorities, broken down into 18 objectives:
- Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050;
- Ensuring the resilience of maritime and coastal territories and ecosystems;
- Enhancing the short- and long-term well-being of populations, employees, and stakeholders in maritime and coastal areas;
- Boosting the competitiveness of the maritime economy.
By 2030, these objectives aim to achieve: good ecological status of marine waters by reducing pressures from maritime activities, continuing the decarbonization of maritime activities by diversifying energy sources, and enhancing the appeal of careers in the maritime sector by adapting training programs to meet new needs arising from maritime activities.
The development of the SNML stems from the “2009 Grenelle of the seas”. The government prepared this version with the National Council of the Sea and Coastal Areas (CNML). Extensive consultations took place with maritime façade councils (Hexagon), maritime basin councils (overseas), and the public before adoption. It will be implemented through strategic documents of the maritime façades (DSF). Overseas, it will be executed through strategic documents of the maritime basins (DSBM). The strategy includes objectives from the European Union’s Integrated Maritime Policy (PMI).
Emphasis on Ecological, Economic, and Social Goals
The strategic plan focuses on ecological, economic, and social goals. It ensures that France’s maritime and coastal policies align with broader environmental objectives. It also aims to enhance the well-being of its citizens.
