Coastal Zone Management

The Marine Management Department has undertaken some preliminary work in the area of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) on behalf of the Council, building on the legislative framework that exist in the Islands.

The NAFC Marine Centre, in partnership with the Shetland Islands Council and other agencies, is currently developing ICZM further as one of four pilot projects within the Scottish Sustainable Marine Environment Initiative (SSMEI). This Scottish Executive led initiative is an integral part of the Executive's Marine Strategy and aims to develop innovative approaches to a possible planning framework for Scotland to ensure the sustainable management and use of Scotland's marine resources. Please see the SSMEI web page for information and updates on the project.

Additionally, the Department provides advice to the Council on marine issues, responds on their behalf in regard to national and European consultations and represents the Council on a number of outside bodies.