Achieving net zero in a cluttered seascape: Policy gaps, conflicts and synergies

The global climate crisis requires immediate and comprehensive action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global temperature rises “well below” 2 °C. The UK has committed to reaching Net Zero by 2050 (Scotland 2045) with several policies proposed to achieve this goal and ambitious aims to decarbonise whole industries. The UK marine environment is expanding its activities and capitalising on blue growth. Here, we review current marine policies in the context of Net Zero and find that, despite the proliferation of Net Zero policies, there are crucial gaps impeding how Net Zero will be achieved in the marine environment. With the increasing demand for ocean space and the transition to Net Zero, conflicts have arisen between the drive for green energy through offshore wind (OSW) and maintaining space for existing marine users. Better protection and restoration of blue carbon sites and environmental protection targets will be required to meet Net Zero but could lead to further spatial squeeze. Synergies between marine sectors have emerged or are being considered, which may reduce tensions as industries look to expand to achieve Net Zero, e.g. OSW accommodating certain types of fishing, decarbonising oil and gas production, and decommissioned oil and gas infrastructure being repurposed for green energy production or carbon capture and storage. As marine industries expand and decarbonise, trade-offs are likely, and it remains to be seen whether Net Zero will be prioritised, or if policy gaps and outdated policies will impact the UK meeting its legal Net Zero obligations. • Increasing demand for ocean space is resulting in further marine spatial squeeze between users. • It is important to evaluate current policy tensions and synergies in the pursuit of marine Net Zero. • Integrated marine governance is needed to deliver Net Zero, restore nature and secure a just transition.