Integrating marine spatial planning into blue economy policies in Latin America

Abstract

This article analyzes the evolving integration of selected Latin American (LATAM) countries with the blue economy (BE) through an analysis of their national policies and marine spatial planning (MSP) frameworks. Despite the growing global recognition of the ocean's significance for sustainable development, many countries and regions, particularly in LATAM, have been slow in fully integrating the BE agenda. Employing a hybrid methodology that combines a comprehensive literature review, the MSProadmap tool, and official governmental documents from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela, this research maps the current status of BE and MSP integration. The study reveals a pronounced lack of explicit BE definitions and dedicated policies across most LATAM nations, with Brazil standing out as a notable exception due to its ongoing efforts. Furthermore, the analysis highlights a strong correlation between a country's maritime territorial consciousness, as indicated by its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to land area ratio, and the maturity of its MSP systems and BE policy integration. Furthermore, the findings underscore that while MSP is a crucial tool for promoting the BE, its effectiveness is contingent upon clear legal frameworks, robust institutional coordination, and a comprehensive scope that integrates diverse sectors and stakeholders. This research also provides critical insights for policymakers, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches to foster a more sustainable and equitable ocean governance in LATAM, ultimately contributing to the region's blue transition.