Connecting governance, science and planning for a resilient and sustainable coastal future
To move from urgency to action, countries need an integrated approach that translates coastal policies into sustainable practice.
Collaboration is at the core of everything we do – and it’s reflected in the stories you’ll find here. Follow the latest insights, updates and project progress from across the region
Our work is grounded in the ICZM Protocol (2008) of the Barcelona Convention, the first international legal framework dedicated to integrated coastal zone management (ICZM). It sets out the policy basis guiding how Mediterranean countries plan, govern and manage their coastal zones.
For nearly 50 years, we have partnered with countries and institutions to advance regional cooperation and sustainable development as a Regional Activity Centre under the United Nations Environment Programme’s Mediterranean Action Plan (UNEP/MAP).
Working closely with National Focal Points, we help align regional commitments with national priorities and support a Mediterranean network that helps bring ICZM principles to the ground.
Working across these interconnected domains, we help local and national actors – from public authorities to communities, researchers and civil society – think long-term and make sustainability practical.
Coastal zones as a complex land–sea interaction system, shaping their use and development
Maritime space and patterns of human activities at sea, including how different uses coexist
Climate-driven pressures on coastal and marine areas, from sea-level rise to extreme weather events
Biodiversity, habitats and ecosystems that inform environmental considerations for coastal and maritime planning
Each coastal context is different, but the knowledge, governance tools and methods we provide can be shared, adapted and applied across the region.
Supporting countries in applying the ICZM Protocol through coordination mechanisms, policy guidance and governance tools tailored to different coastal contexts.
Helping countries plan and manage activities on both land and at sea using the ecosystem-based approach – through Coastal Plans, ICZM strategies, Marine Spatial Plans and Coastal Area Management Programmes (CAMP) that integrate climate adaptation measures, provide long-term guidance and support sustainable development.
Monitoring coastal and marine environments — from hydrographic alterations to coastal ecosystems and landscapes — combined with strategic and environmental assessments, helps countries design stronger, more consistent and sustainable coastal and marine plans, policies, and measures to achieve and maintain Good Environmental Status (GES).
Strengthening regional skills and public engagement through training, workshops, consultations, and outreach initiatives such as Mediterranean Coast Day.
Explore key reports, guidelines and knowledge products that support sustainable coastal and marine management
Our work doesn’t stop at tools and technical guidance – it’s also about inspiring people to drive real change for the Mediterranean.
Celebrated every 25 September, Coast Day brings together governments, institutions, communities and young people across the Mediterranean to protect our shared coastline and promote practical solutions for its long-term resilience. It’s more than an awareness campaign – it’s a call to action.
