Gender-based ocean uses and values: Implications for marine spatial planning

This study advances a gender-sensitive framework for marine spatial planning (MSP), emphasising the need for equitable and inclusive governance in the blue economy. Through participatory mapping and Ocean Use Surveys conducted in the Maldives, the Azores, and Belize, the research identifies distinct gendered patterns in ocean use. Men predominantly engage in offshore commercial activities, while women’s contributions are concentrated nearshore, often in informal sectors such as subsistence fishing, tourism, and cultural practices. Notably, the study highlights gendered roles in aquaculture, where women’s involvement is often underrecognised despite their significant contributions to small-scale and community-based operations. The findings advocate for improved data collection practices, including mixed-gender survey teams and targeted outreach, to ensure that women’s roles are accurately captured and valued. Integrating these insights into MSP can foster more inclusive and effective marine governance.