The Coastal Zone

The coastal zone is the area where land meets the ocean or sea, encompassing beaches, dunes, estuaries, and nearshore waters. It is a dynamic environment shaped by natural processes like tides, waves, and currents, as well as human activities such as development and fishing. This zone supports diverse ecosystems, including habitats for many species, and provides resources and recreational opportunities. Its health and stability are important for protecting inland areas from erosion, flooding, and climate change impacts, making sustainable management vital to balance ecological integrity, economic interests, and community resilience.