Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Europe

This Recommendation lays down principles to be followed in the implementation of Council Resolution of 6 May 1994 on a Community strategy for integrated coastal zone management. The Recommendation consists of six Chapters: (I) A strategic approach; (II) Principles; (III) National stocktaking; (IV) National strategies; (V) Cooperation; (VI) Reporting and review. Member States shall adopt a strategic approach to the management of their coastal zones. The approach shall be based upon: (a) protection of the coastal environment, based on an ecosystem approach preserving its integrity and functioning, and sustainable management of the natural resources of both the marine and terrestrial components of the coastal zone; b) recognition of the threat to coastal zones posed by climate change and of the dangers entailed by the rise in sea level and the increasing frequency and violence of storms; c) appropriate and ecologically responsible coastal protection measures. Member States shall follow the principles of integrated coastal zone management, which should be based on, inter alia: (a) a long-term perspective which will take into account the precautionary principle and the needs of present and future generations; (b) local specificity and the great diversity of European coastal zones; (c) involving all the parties concerned in the management process, for example by means of agreements and based on shared responsibility; (d) support and involvement of relevant administrative bodies at national, regional and local level. Further, Member States shall conduct or update an overall stocktaking in order to analyse which major actors, laws and institutions influence the management of their coastal zones. Cooperation among Member States to facilitate progress towards a common approach to integrated coastal zone management. Member States shall report to the Commission on the implementation of this Recommendation. These reports shall be available to the public.