Coastal zone management in Denmark: ways and means for further integration

This article summarizes the findings of a research project on integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) in Denmark. The project comprises a study of the existing regulation and case studies of the management practices of the Danish coastal zone, as well as a study of international experiences with coastal zone management. The regulatory or institutional framework is seen as an important element that may facilitate or obstruct ICZM since ICZM essentially is about making well-balanced and well-reasoned decisions. The research project identifies several weak points in the legal and regulatory framework and in management practices. One major problem is the regulatory split between land and sea. This is reflected in the legal framework, in the distribution of powers and in management practices. On the other hand, the Danish Planning Act and the informal cooperation procedures established in Denmark form the basis of a high degree of integration between the authorities dealing with land-based coastal activities. On the basis of the findings a number of key issues to improve land–sea integration, horizontal and vertical integration are listed, comprising definition of a coastal zone that includes land and sea areas, coastal planning requirements as well as public participation, environmental considerations and co-ordination requirements in sectoral laws for coastal activities.