National Strategy for the Sea and Coastline

Updated on 18/06/2025

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The National Strategy for the Sea and Coastline (SNML) is a plan that brings together many public policies related to the sea and the coast. Its goal is to manage these areas in a balanced way—supporting human activities while also protecting the environment.

What is the SNML?

The SNML was created after a national consultation called the Grenelle de la Mer. It is based on environmental laws and is designed by the French government together with local authorities, industry professionals, associations, scientists, and everyday users of the sea and coast.

This strategy provides a common direction for all actions and decisions related to the sea and coastline. It works alongside other specific strategies (for energy, fishing, tourism, etc.) and applies both in mainland France and in overseas territories.

A new version of the SNML is created every six years. It sets out the main goals for how to plan and manage maritime and coastal areas. These goals are then adapted to each region: in mainland France through regional MSP documents ("Document Stratégique de Façade"), and in overseas territories through similar MSP documents ("Document Stratégique de Bassin Maritime").

The first SNML ran from 2017 to 2023. It was updated in 2023, and the new version for 2024–2030 was officially adopted at the end of 2023 and published by decree on June 10, 2024. Work has now begun to update the regional plans based on this new national strategy.

National Strategy for the Sea and Coastline 2024-2030