The sheer density and diversity of sea-based activities (fishing, oil and gas extraction, tourism, shipbuilding, sea traffic and ports) often creates conflicts because of fragmentation, the Commission highlights in an explanatory note.
As all these activities impact on each other, it comes to the conclusion that an integrated approach is necessary, arguing that EU member states would be less efficient acting in isolation.
Highlighted potential benefits include a more coherent allocation of space and better environmental protection.
A task force of commissioners has been set up to draft a consultation paper on the EU's future maritime policy. Under the leadership of fisheries chief Joe Borg, the task force comprises commissioners Verheugen (enterprise and industry), Barrot (transport), Dimas (environment), Hübner (regional policy), Potocnik (research) and Piebalgs (energy).
