http://www.parc-marin-iroise.gouv.fr
Parc naturel marin d’Iroise (PNMI), created in 2007, is a protected marine area. Covering 3550 square kilometers, it includes sea space between the coast of Finistére and the limits of French territorial water. PNMI aims to preserve the environment and support the sustainable economic development in the area.
In WP3 (Technology Support), the role of the Park is to assess the possible impact of the introduction of marine renewable energy devices on the marine environment. Specific tasks include:
– Conduct a literature review of impact studies of marine energy projects.
– Set up workshops to ensure a sharing of knowledge across both regions, including a focus on monitoring biodiversity.
– Produce a geographical information system (GIS) for the energy potential (wave and current) of our regions and the assessment of biodiversity. This GIS will assess the optimum areas for the development of marine renewable energy in Cornwall and Finistére.
In WP4 (Policy issues), PNMI must rely on a network of experts along with local and national stakeholders to:
- Provide an overview of public policy and regulatory frameworks governing marine renewable energy in France, Britanny in particular
- Evaluate the legislative framework applicable to projects aimed at the exploitation of marine renewable energy and, through a questionnaire and a workshop, look at the various methods of encouraging sustainable development.
The principle of governance of Le Parc naturel marin d’Iroise, based on consultation, is a concrete example of application of the principles of consultation, relevant for a good level of understanding, acceptance and involvement among local actors. The Management Board of PNMI brings together representatives of local authorities, State services, users (fishing industry, boaters, etc. ..), associations and environmental scientists. All its members are consulted during the implementation of any project having a significant impact on the marine environment. The opinion of the Management Board must be followed by the responsible public authority. This method of governance ensures effective communication, and involves civil society from the start. It is therefore an example of positive action, and experience from this will be presented in WP6 (Stakeholder engagement).
In particular, the management board of PNMI met on 7 June 2011 and issued a notice for the implementation of the demonstration tidal project “Sabella D 10″ off the island of Ouessant.
