Abstract:
This article refers to the analysis of "gaps" between institutional frameworks and implementation of actions for the integrated management of the Mediterranean coastal zones and focuses on the local level, dealing particularly with case studies in Mediterranean municipalities, as part of the Mare Nostrum Project. The primary objective of the project - funded by the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument of Cross Border Cooperation in the Mediterranean Programme - is to contribute in the improvement of policy implementation procedures referred to ICZM along the Mediterranean coast, at local, national and cross border level, and in the integration of coastal zone policies to the wider socio-economic and spatial policies. Identifying and analyzing existing legal and institutional tools for spatial planning and ICZM in the case studies carry out this objective. In general, the case studies indicate that local authorities recognize the high importance of coastal zone in urban development and environmental protection. Nevertheless, in all cases, local authorities focus on planning procedures, which are designed to streamline development, while often impairing the public‘s right to be aware of, and participate in the planning process. If a ―bottom up‖ approach is considered to be essential, public participation procedures should be upgraded and reinforced.
