A maritime spatial plan is a strategic development document illustrated by a map. Map markings are used to show the values of marine areas and existing activities and potential future sites for new activities and their alternative placement in all of Finland’s marine areas. The plan covers the territorial waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone. The plan is not legally binding, but an assessment of its indirect and direct impacts and effectiveness forms part of the planning process.

The administrative authorities of coastal regional councils approved the plan, prepared according to the Land Use and Building Act, between November and December 2020. The councils of coastal regions have prepared the maritime spatial plan in three different parts: Gulf of Finland (Helsinki-Uusimaa Regional Council and Regional Council of Kymenlaakso), Archipelago Sea and Southern Bothnian Sea (Regional Council of Southwest Finland and Regional Council of Satakunta), and Northern Bothnian Sea, Quark and Bothnian Bay (Regional Council of Ostrobothnia, Regional Council of Central Ostrobothnia, Council of Oulu Region and Regional Council of Lapland).

The data is suitable for a general-level examination of Finnish marine areas.

More information on maritime spatial plan: https://www.merialuesuunnitelma.fi.