The purpose of the Norwegian management plan is to provide a framework for the sustainable use of natural resources and goods derived from the Barents Sea–Lofoten area and at the same time maintain the structure, functioning and productivity of the ecosystems of the area.
The management plan is thus a tool which will be used both to facilitate value creation and to maintain the high environmental value of the area. This requires a clarification of the overall framework for activities in these waters in order to pave the way for the co-existence of different industries, particularly the fisheries industry, petroleum industry and maritime transport. The management plan is also intended to be instrumental in ensuring that business interests, local, regional and central authorities, environmental organisations and other interest groups all have a common understanding of the goals for the management of the Barents Sea– Lofoten area.
The Steering Committee and the organization of work on the scientific basis for an integrated management plan for the Barents Sea–Lofoten area.