Territorial Impact Assessment for SEZs. A possible alliance between two policy-decision tools

The chapter focuses on the implementation of the Territorial Impact Assessment (TIA) in the context of the Italian "Unique SEZ", using the STeMA approach as a reference model. The starting point of the analysis is the scenario and sectoral policy outlined in the "SEZ Strategic Plan" 2024, and the paper details the process through which the TIA can be integrated into public policy assessment mechanisms. The integration of TIA into the SEZ assessment mechanisms is intended to guide a necessary strategic spatial plan, while respecting and exploiting the geographical diversity of the region. The application of TIA promotes both economic-financial competitiveness and territorial cohesion, demonstrating how TIA can be effectively used in planning decisions to balance economic viability with environmental and social sustainability. A European Group of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) governance model is also proposed to better manage and develop the organisation of SEZs.