The successful management of marine resources requires a solid understanding of how ecosystems function. Incorporated in this understanding is knowledge of the distribution of habitats and of the species that inhabit them. The interaction of species with each other and their responses to the activities of man are of great importance for coastal resources management. It is difficult to conserve any particular resource in the absence of a comprehensive, integrated framework for policy, planning and management. Although coastal zone management programs are created to address broad resource systems, or ecosystems, they have to be based upon detailed knowledge of individual resource units. It could be said that the key to successful coastal zone management strategy is information. To enhance resource development capabilities, each country should acquire and maintain an inventory of its coastal environments and resources. This inventory should provide a balance between long-term goals, such as ecosystem preservation and immediate demands, such as tourism. An important part of resource management and inventory is the mapping of coastal zone habitats and resources using remote sensing technologies.

The use of modern information technology, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), provides the resource manager with valuable tools for management and decision making. Access to e-mail and the Internet provide the means for networking both within the region and internationally, and access to important information. Viable research and monitoring programs ensure a continuos supply of data on the state of the coastal zone. The implementation of a successful integrated coastal zone management strategy is dependent on a strong legal and institutional framework. The central agency should be government based, which may translate to a coastal zone management unit within the government department closest tied to coastal issues. There should be an established mechanism in place for coordinating coastal zone management. The cooperation within existing agencies and departments should be strong. Universities provide a valuable resource, especially as a vehicle for research and training. Universities can supply the government with trained personnel for monitoring coastal resources. Non governmental organizations and community based management initiatives can also make a valuable contribution. There is a need to ensure long term budgetary support for local agencies, so that personnel and programs are able to function in a stable environment, and continuity is guaranteed. Coastal dependent industries, such as tourism and fisheries, rely on effective management of the coastal zone. A successful coastal zone management program comprises a number of components. Resource inventory information should form a basis for a comprehensive coastal zone management plan, which will outline the types of activities and uses appropriate to a given area. The establishment of marine protected areas is one important aspect of a coastal zone management plan. Any development on the terrestrial and water portion of the coastal zone should be planned for so that land-sea interactions and the implications of the development to marine areas are properly taken into account. Environmental Impact Assessments should be carried out for major developments.

Planning

A management plan should also include measures for pollution control. Initially, an assessment on the status of pollutants, both on the organism and ecosystem levels should be made, and a monitoring program set up. Measures to alleviate pollution in problem areas should be taken. Implementation of such a plan requires a legislative component, especially when it involves restrictions to current activities, such as fishing or the clearance of mangroves. The legislation, in turn, requires adequate enforcement so that compliance is ensured. Public education and the involvement of coastal communities are important components of coastal zone management. Co-management may be appropriate in some cases. Education programs can be used to communicate resource knowledge on many levels, from children to local communities, fishermen and visitors. The enforcement of legislation is made a lot easier when the support of the local communities and resource users is gained through education and communication. Regular networking within the region on this and other aspects of coastal zone management is important. In the end, the goal of sustainable development in the Wider Caribbean Region can only be achieved through the implementation of an effective integrated coastal zone management strategy.