The main research areas of ESaTDOR (European Seas and Territorial Development, Opportunities and Risks) are: investigation of current uses of Europe’s seas through mapping current sea use patterns, typologies, dynamics and inter-linkages; identification of patterns of sea use and of types of coastal regions; investigating the present state of European sea areas; identifying potential areas of conflict between the use of sea areas and their deterioration; distinguishing different types of coastal regions; studying employment patterns in sea areas and evaluating the present state of maritime clusters; analysis and identification of development opportunities in the respective areas, also taking into account issues regarding sustainability and climate change; and, analysis of the relationship between terrestrial and maritime planning seeking optimal practices for maritime governance.