From sectoral to integrated coastal management: a case in Xiamen, China

Xiamen has been selected as a demonstration site for the GEF/UNDP/IMO Regional Programme for the Prevention and Management of Marine Pollution in the East Asian Seas. Its purpose is to test a working model for the application of an integrated coastal management system for mitigating marine pollution, rapid economic development. The paper outlines the success in ICM institutional development at the local level, particularly the establishment of decision-making mechanisms based on consensus building among major stakeholders, and inputs from science and technology. Further, the institutional development provides a framework for, and facilitates progress in, the legislative improvement and enforcement, cross-sectoral marine pollution monitoring, developing sustainable financing options, enhancing public awareness and participation, and capacity building towards ICM goals. Evaluation criteria for application of ICM system are also discussed.