Towards a future maritime policy for the union: A European vision for the oceans and seas

The seven-chapter "Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, Brussels," is the Commission's green paper containing its strategic objectives for 2005-09. The second chapter examines the importance in economic terms of the maritime economy, its growth prospects and the sources of its competitiveness. The third chapter focuses on maximizing the quality of life in the coastal regions. The fourth chapter covers the range of tools that can be used to enhance the sustainable management of the marine environment. The fifth chapter addresses maritime governance and considers first the position within the European Union. The sixth chapter shows how maritime heritage activities can be encouraged, and in turn linked to other maritime sectors. The last chapter concerns the consultation process.