%0 conference paper
%@ 
%A Kannen, A., Kremer, H., Gee, K., Lange, M.

%D 2013
%J The Regulation of Continental Shelf Development, Rethinking International Standards, 36th Annual Conference of the Center for Oceans Law and Policy

%P 153-178 

%T Renewable Energy and Marine Spatial Planning: Scientific and Legal Implications
%U 
 
%X Based on a brief analysis of offshore wind farming in the context of MSP the paper illustrates the role of science by highlighting the important complementary functions of disciplinary process oriented research versus interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches in assessing and modelling the expected cumulative effects of large scale offshore wind farming. In light of recent global discourse about future Earth system science, challenges and the emerging global science initiative “Future Earth” (supported by the UN, and major research and funding institutions) key research questions and the relevance of applying a co-design approach inviting all actors and researchers to the framing process are discussed. The ultimate goal is to foster ecosystem-based management. It is most evident that scientific information needs to be provided to inform one of the major and unprecedented transformations on continental shelves which is motivated by a socio-political decision to move towards global sustainability in response to climate change and economic development. Designing appropriate social environmental assessment, forecasting, observations and involving the institutional and legal dimensions are central in this context.