Welcome to the web site for the UNEP Shelf Programme. The UNEP Shelf Programme is coordinated by UNEP/GRID-Arendal in Norway and is established to assist developing States and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to complete the activities required to delineate the outer limits of their continental shelf. States are faced with the costly and complex work of data identification, collection, analysis and submission preparation. Due to limited technical and financial capacity many developing States and SIDS will not be able to complete the submission process without considerable external support, both technical and financial. This support is offered by The UNEP Shelf Programme.

The UNEP Shelf programme has so far been in contact with 62 developing states. The UNEP Shelf Porgramme has assisted these states with awareness raising and training, and 22 of those states has received support in identifying, collecting or analysing existing data. 9 states has participated or will participate shortly with their national experts in workshops arranged by the programme to build capacity in the state.