7. Reflections and conclusion

France has the world's 2nd largest maritime area. In line with its European and international commitments, and in the exercise of its sovereignty over waters under national jurisdiction, the immensity of this space confers a dual responsibility for its protection.

On the one hand, it is obliged to protect the marine ecosystems under its responsibility, but also to ensure the safety and security of people and goods in its approaches, and to defend its sovereign interests in maritime areas (Comité interministériel de la mer – 2018 – - press kit).

When it comes to planning transport facilities, and in particular port developments and related activities – such as dredging for maintenance of maritime and river access channels to port facilities –, three categories of stakeholder are involved: the citizen, the politician and the technician....