Consideration of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive in marine mining projects

The project examines the legal requirements for mining projects in the German marine waters of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea and their implementation in administrative practice. The aim is to determine whether the current practice is consistent with the objectives of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). It considers whether and how the objectives of the MSFD and other relevant marine protection law are taken into account in the permitting scheme of mining projects. The project team identifies potential conflicts of objectives, deficits in observance and consideration as well as other legal or enforcement obstacles and best practices. Based on the results of this analysis, the scientists reveal possible further need for action (e.g. need for amendments to the Federal Mining Act, further regulations or concretizing administrative guidelines).