Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Water Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection

Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Water (ISSN 2073-4441). This special issue belongs to the section "Oceans and Coastal Zones".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2025 | Viewed by 21195

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Celene B. Milanes

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

1. Faculty of Engineering, Universidad del Magdalena, Calle 32 N° 22-08, Santa Marta 470004, Colombia
2. Associate Researcher at Coiba Scientific Station (Coiba AIP), Gustavo Lara Street, Building 145B, City of Knowledge, Clayton, Panama City 0801, Panama
Interests: land-use planning; coastal boundaries; governance and coastal policy; coastal communities’ engagement; adaptative ecosystems management; integrated coastal zone management; coastal risks, multi-hazards, and vulnerabilities; urban risk analysis; coastal and rural tourism; sustainable development
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Camilo M. Botero

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

1. School of Law, University Sergio Arboleda, Santa Marta 470001, Colombia
2. Coiba Scientific Station (Coiba AIP), Gustavo Lara Street, Building 145B, City of Knowledge, Clayton, Panama City 0801, Panama
Interests: beach certification schemes; coastal heritage; scientific tourism; coastal tourism; beach management; integrated coastal zone management; marine spatial planning; coastal legislation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Daniel O. Suman

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Sciences & School of Law, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
Interests: environmental planning; coastal law and policy; marine protected areas; adaptation to climate change and sea level rise; marine policy

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Formulating coastal and marine policies is a significant action and the first step in a legal framework adequate in all countries. This Special Issue, called “Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection”, aims to show the most relevant experiences and main scientific results currently being developed worldwide to face the absence or limited implementation of coastal policies, legal frameworks, and governability and governance mechanisms that affect different territories. Research papers that provide methodologies and specific studies focusing on coastal areas, marine protected areas, citizen science, community engagement, environmental justice, complex governance, capacity building for multi-hazard management, sustainable development, challenges, and perspectives of the integrated management of coastal zones and hydrographic river basins are all welcome.

This Special Issue will focus on the following topics:

Governability and governance in coastal areas and insular states.
Integrated coastal zone management to face multi-hazards scenarios.
Inequality, poverty, and risk in coastal areas.
Scientometric analysis of policy and legal framework worldwide.
New methodologies for improving governability and governance programs in coastal areas.
Governmental barriers to community engagement.
Bottom-up governance and community decision making.
Partnerships among different stakeholder groups for improving governance.
Contributions to a government mandate to overcome coastal and marine government barriers.
Community meaningful participation in coastal planning and governance.
Coastal and marine policies regarding the Anthropocene era.
Public policies on climate change and sustainable development in coastal ecosystems.
Legal innovations for adapting coastal areas to climate change effects.
Land-use planning and regulations on coastal cities.

This Special Issue aims to compile papers that will broaden the scope of the international events entitled XX National Seminar on Marine Sciences and Technologies (SENALMAR) and II International Meeting “Knowledge and blue economy” (InnovAzul). Both events will be coordinated by Universidad del Magdalena and Colombian Ocean Commission (CCO) (https://senalmar.com/). The research papers submitted in this congress can be selected for the Special Issue. The events will be held in Santa Marta, Colombia, in September 2024. We invite you to submit relevant and novel contributions for the Special Issue.

Dr. Celene B. Milanes
Dr. Camilo M. Botero
Prof. Dr. Daniel O. Suman
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Water is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

governability and governance
community engagement
Anthropocene era
coastal cities
integrated coastal zone management

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (8 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

29 pages, 923 KiB

Open AccessArticle

International Legal Systems in Tackling the Marine Plastic Pollution: A Critical Analysis of UNCLOS and MARPOL

by Yen-Chiang Chang and Muhammad Saqib

Water 2025, 17(10), 1547; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17101547 - 21 May 2025

Viewed by 174

Abstract

Marine plastic pollution (MPP) has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges, severely affecting marine ecosystems and human health. Even though international agreements such as UNCLOS and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) exist, the existing laws are often being introduced to question the inability of the present laws to do something about the escalating issue of plastic pollution. This study uses a doctrinal legal approach to examine how UNCLOS and MARPOL respond to marine plastic pollution (MPP) with a focus on their ability to handle land-based and ship-based MPP. Gaps in these frameworks are underlined, such as a lack of enforceable requirements under UNCLOS on reducing plastic rubbish from LBS and disparities in implementing MARPOL’s regulations on plastic discharges from ships. This paper also explores activities of organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), with a focus on the Regional Seas Programme and the Global Programme of Action. Although a lot has been achieved, much remains to be done to resolve the problem of marine plastic pollution. This paper concludes with a series of practical proposals aimed at refining international laws, strengthening enforcement, and encouraging collective action at the international level. The proposed measures are aimed at advancing a circular economy model, strengthening legal infrastructure, and fostering a single global response against marine plastic pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 6042 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficient Naval Surveillance: Addressing Label Noise with Rockafellian Risk Minimization for Water Security

by Gabriel Custódio Rangel, Victor Benicio Ardilha da Silva Alves, Igor Pinheiro de Araújo Costa, Miguel Ângelo Lellis Moreira, Arthur Pinheiro de Araújo Costa, Marcos dos Santos and Eric Charles Eckstrand

Water 2025, 17(3), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17030401 - 31 Jan 2025

Viewed by 711

Abstract

This study proposes developing a resilient machine learning algorithm based on neural networks to classify naval images used in surveillance, search, and detection operations in vast coastal and marine environments. Coastal areas critical for water resource management often face challenges such as illegal fishing, trafficking, piracy, and other illicit activities that require robust monitoring systems powered by computer vision. However, real-world datasets in such environments can be compromised by label noise due to random inaccuracies or deliberate adversarial attacks, leading to decreased accuracy in machine learning models. Our innovative approach employs Rockafellian Risk Minimization (RRM) to mitigate the impact of label noise contamination, crucial to maintaining data integrity in water-related security and governance operations. Unlike existing methodologies that rely on extensively cleaned datasets, our two-step process adjusts neural network weights and manipulates nominal probabilities of data points to isolate potential data corruption effectively. This technique reduces dependence on meticulous data cleaning, thereby increasing data processing efficiency in water resources and coastal management. To validate the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed model, we apply RRM in various parameter settings to datasets specific to naval environments and evaluate its classification accuracy against traditional methods. By leveraging the proposed model, we aim to reinforce the robustness of ship detection models, ultimately contributing to developing more reliable automated maritime surveillance systems. Such systems are essential for strengthening governance, security, and water management and curbing illegal activities at sea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 5390 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perception of Mangrove Social–Ecological System Governance in Southeastern Cuba

by Yanet Cruz Portorreal, Natalie Beenaerts, Nico Koedam, Orlando Joel Reyes Dominguez, Celene B. Milanes, Farid Dahdouh-Guebas and Ofelia Pérez Montero

Water 2024, 16(17), 2495; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16172495 - 2 Sep 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2767

Abstract

This study examined local communities’ perceptions of mangroves in coastal southeastern Cuba. A variety of methods were employed, including mixed and structured questionnaire surveys, interviews with key informants, and document reviews. Data were gathered from 334 respondents living in communities adjacent to four mangrove social–ecological systems (SESs). The analysis focused on five variables: community use of mangrove resources, ecosystem services, threats to the ecosystem, management activities, and social–ecological relationships. To qualitatively assess the influence of social–ecological relationships and governance, a matrix was created based on anthropogenic activities identified by respondents and their perceptions of ecosystem services. A Spearman’s rank correlation analysis was performed between demographic variables and identified mangrove uses. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare the frequency of mangrove uses and the perception of ecosystem services among the studied areas. The results indicate that, while local people recognise the uses and ecosystem services of mangroves, they do not rely on them for their livelihoods. Perceptions of ecosystem services vary significantly depending on the occupation of the respondents and the locality. They also showed moderate to full awareness of management responsibilities and activities at each site. The most commonly identified threats were climate change, drought, and deforestation. Three types of social–ecological relationships were identified based on the characteristics of the communities, their economic activities, and their impacts on the mangroves: urban–industrial, rural–agricultural, and rural–agricultural/tourism. Based on the results, recommendations are made for ecosystem governance in the southeast of Cuba. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 6701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reflections on How to Reach the “30 by 30” Target: Identification of and Suggestions on Global Priority Marine Areas for Protection

by Chang Zhao, Yuejing Ge and Miaozhuang Zheng

Water 2024, 16(16), 2293; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16162293 - 14 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1775

Abstract

The establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) is an important method to ensure marine protection. To protect and conserve global marine biodiversity, with the adoption of the “Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework” during the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties of Convention on Biodiversity (CBD) in December 2022, the establishment of an effectively managed MPA network by 2030 and the protection of 30% of the world’s oceans will be common goals for all countries party to the CBD over the next decade. Based on the distribution of over 150 types of marine species, habitats, ecosystems, and abiotic elements, ArcGIS10.5 and Zonation are used in this study to calculate the marine protection priority levels of coastal, nearshore, open ocean, and deep ocean trench areas, and a plan to reach the “30 by 30” targets is proposed. The suggestions for scientifically identifying and managing MPAs are as follows: first, improve MPA planning and establish a well-connected MPA network in national jurisdictions, then conduct scientific marine investigations to obtain background data on MPA establishment and delimitation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2664 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Governance, Economic Transformation, and Land Use: A Case Study on the Jimei Peninsula, Xiamen, China, 1936–2023

by Shu-Chen Tsai, Xue-Fang Zhang, Su-Hsin Lee and Hui Wang

Water 2024, 16(6), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16060913 - 21 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2175

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explain how the heterogeneous elements embedded in the Jimei Peninsula affect the transformation of the production landscape into a consumption landscape and the connection between urban governance and economic transformation. The study took a qualitative approach, utilizing historical literature analysis, a field investigation, and in-depth interviews to explore the driving forces and impacts of coastal-zone functional transformation. A total of 26 residents were interviewed individually or collectively, the current situation in the coastal zone with a length of about 16.1 km was recorded in detail, and all the collected elements were divided into six landscape categories for analysis. The results indicate that urban positioning, economic development, policies, and residents are the main factors driving the continuous advancement of the Jimei Peninsula zone. The coast has completed the functional transformation from meeting the residents’ survival needs to tourists’ sightseeing needs. The traditional fishing culture in this area is slowly disappearing with the tide of time, and navigation technology is being passed down through the Jimei School Village. This study reveals the dynamic process of the transformation of coastal functions in representative coastal tourism cities in China, bringing attention to coastal ecology and local fishing culture, and raising people’s awareness of cautious coastal development and sustainable blue-economy development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4472 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Spatial and Governance Dilemma of Small and Medium-Sized Italian Ports (SMPs): Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) as a Potential Response

by Fabio Carella, Paolo De Martino, Folco Soffietti, Vittore Negretto and Francesco Musco

Water 2024, 16(2), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16020251 - 11 Jan 2024

Viewed by 2152

Abstract

The Italian coast has about 700 ports, which are different in typology, dimension, role, and ownership. Historically, this has led to the significant fragmentation of governance and space and a lack of cooperation that ports and cities still experience today. Among all ports, small and medium-sized ports (SMPs), such as marinas, small touristic harbors, and moorings, are the most affected. Unlike the main ports, where spatial and strategic regulation planning fall under the port authority’s responsibilities, SMPs are a combination of public and private management and are, therefore, excluded from national and regional planning and larger strategies. Improving SMPs’ cooperation at the regional level can drive more effective sustainable management among related activities (tourism and the fishing sector) and reduce pressures on the land–sea interaction (LSI). In filling the gaps, this article challenges the existing legal framework, planning tools, approaches, and initiatives and may pave the way to establishing a better-integrated national governance for SMPs. In conclusion, this paper identifies two main opportunities that can support the steady establishment of governance and the systematic harmonized development of these SMPs. The first one is offered by maritime spatial planning (MSP) as a strategic and legal tool whereby SMPs are recognized and, if financially supported, could find incentives and measures for their development. The second one is through European projects, programs, and initiatives such as Framesport as drivers in establishing a common ground among public and private interests and as a cooperation engine at a local scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

22 pages, 5820 KiB

Open AccessReview

Solutions Based on Nature to Face Water Stress: Lessons from the Past and Present

by Daniel O. Suman, Manuela Morais and Carlos Hiroo Saito

Water 2024, 16(16), 2301; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16162301 - 15 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2558

Abstract

Nature-based solutions (NbS) to water scarcity, environmental degradation, climate change, and biodiversity losses are enjoying increasing implementation throughout the world. This manuscript reviews three case studies from Brazil, Panama, and Portugal that illustrate NbS and searches for commonalities that may assist their usefulness in new sites. The Tijuca Forest in Rio de Janeiro is a remarkable story of centuries of forest management and restoration that initially aimed at providing water security for the capital of the country during the XIX Century while it was still a monarchy. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Panama Canal Watershed produces water for canal operations, electricity generation, and drinking water for half the country’s population. Traditional water mills and weirs near streams in the Alentejo Region, Portugal, have largely been abandoned due to the damming of the Guadiana River. Yet today, weirs are increasingly recognized for their important contribution to water provisioning in this dry region. All have a primary goal related to water provisioning, yet their ecosystem benefits are multiple. The cases offer important lessons for adaptation to climate change, cultural benefits from traditional human activities, and concerns about social equity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 7612 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Global Review of Progress in Remote Sensing and Monitoring of Marine Pollution

by Jingwu Ma, Renfeng Ma, Qi Pan, Xianjun Liang, Jianqing Wang and Xinxin Ni

Water 2023, 15(19), 3491; https://doi.org/10.3390/w15193491 - 6 Oct 2023

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7514

Abstract

With the rapid development of urbanization and industrialization, human activities have caused marine pollution in three ways: land source, air source, and sea source, leading to the problem of marine environments. Remote sensing, with its wide coverage and fast and accurate monitoring capability, continues to be an important tool for marine environment monitoring and evaluation research. This paper focuses on the three types of marine pollution, namely marine seawater pollution, marine debris and microplastic pollution, and marine air pollution. We review the application of remote sensing technology methods for monitoring marine pollution and identify the limitations of existing methods. Marine seawater pollution can be effectively monitored by remote sensing technology, especially where traditional monitoring methods are inadequate. For marine debris and microplastic pollution, the monitoring methods are still in the early stages of development and require further research. For marine air pollution, more air pollution parameters are required for accurate monitoring. Future research should focus on developing marine remote sensing with data, technology, and standard sharing for three-dimensional monitoring, combining optical and physical sensors with biosensors, and using multi-source and multi-temporal monitoring data. A marine multi-source monitoring database is necessary to provide an immediately available basis for coastal and marine governance, improve marine spatial planning, and help coastal and marine protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Coastal and Marine Governance and Protection

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (8 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI