Coastline & marine environment
Coastal areas are attractive and population density there is high: on average five times higher than in other areas. Worldwide, 60% of people live fewer than 150 kilometres from the coast, and that proportion is growing. The coast and the marine environment play host to a significant proportion of all maritime activity: this can boost their economic attractiveness and sustainability. These zones are therefore under significant pressure from human activity, as well as increased risk due to climate change.
This strategic action area encompasses:
- Conserving healthy coastal and offshore environments and safeguarding aquatic biodiversity
- Dealing with new environmental risks linked to anthropogenic pollution and its impact on the environment
- Enhancing resilience to coastal risks and managing the coastline and associated planning issues
- Adding value through coastal heritage and the recreational and cultural sectors.
Main Issues
- Meet regulatory requirements including the EU Water Framework Directive and French Law on Biodiversity
- Evaluate the performance of environmental restoration and eco-design mechanisms as part of planning
- Enhance resilience when faced with coastal risks arising from climate change
- Balance environmental protection against economic development due to coastal activity
