RDE536 MMO1388 - Considerations of Nature Based Solutions in Marine Licensin

Description

Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) are defined as "actions to protect, sustainably 
manage, and restore natural and modified ecosystems that address societal 
challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously benefiting people and nature"
(IUCN). The UK government has ambition to harness nature-based solutions, which 
are seen as critical to achieving net zero domestically (Defra, 2023). Applying NBS 
in marine and coastal environments offers an opportunity to deliver "improved 
environmental health, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and a more 
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sustainable blue economy" (O'Leary et al, 2023). 
The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 provides that a marine licence is required 
for certain activities carried out within the UK marine area up to 200 nautical miles 
out to sea. These activities include construction (including laying of cables, 
maintenance, alteration or improvement of existing structures and assets); 
dredging; deposit of any substance or object; removal of any substance or object; 
incineration of any substance or object; scuttling (sinking) of any vessel or floating 
container; and use of explosives.