COAST
Revitalisation and protection of coastal areas
Coastal areas, islands and peninsulas are currently facing a number of pressing challenges that require a comprehensive approach and solutions that extend inland. Key issues include rising sea levels, climate change manifested by extreme weather events with more frequent fires or flooding, scarcity of fresh water and sustainable management. Equally important issues are the regulation of mass tourism and its impact on local ecosystems, the protection of unique flora and fauna, and efficient waste management. These challenges are interlinked and require a holistic approach that takes into account the wider geographical, ecological and socio-economic context. Only such an approach can lead to the design and implementation of truly effective and sustainable measures for these vulnerable areas.
Ecosystems
Coastal ecosystems represent an extremely valuable natural heritage with a key role in the conservation of biodiversity and the creation of harmonious landscapes. This diverse mosaic includes beaches, dunes, rocky cliffs, seagrass meadows, wetlands, river deltas, lagoons, caves, scrub, coastal forests, mangroves and coral reefs. Each of these ecosystems is a unique world with an irreplaceable function in the balance of nature. These unique sites are essential for future generations and therefore require special attention. As part of our efforts to protect them, we promote sustainable practices in the use of coastal resources and actively support projects aimed at restoring damaged habitats for protected and endangered species. At the same time, we emphasize raising public awareness of the importance of these ecosystems through educational programs and awareness campaigns. Close cooperation with local communities and their active involvement in the protection and management of coastal areas is also a key aspect of our approach, contributing to the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of conservation measures.
Fishing
Sustainable fishing is a key challenge in the context of growing global demand for fish and seafood. Our strategy focuses on promoting forms of fishing that not only maintain ocean productivity but also minimise negative environmental impacts. We pay particular attention to developing sustainable aquaculture methods that effectively reduce water pollution and avoid the risk of non-native species escaping into the wild, while helping to meet the high demand for fish meat.
Management
Coastal areas represent a unique environment where diverse interests and activities, including fishing, tourism, shipping, resource extraction and conservation, collide. In response to this complex situation, we support the creation of innovative model coastal zones that strive for a balanced and sustainable use of local resources. Our approach emphasises participatory methods of planning and decision-making, actively involving all stakeholders - from local communities to industry to NGOs.
A fundamental aspect of our efforts is a thorough assessment of the impacts of human activities on fragile coastal ecosystems. At the same time, we focus on finding effective ways to minimize potential conflicts between different sectors and promote synergies between them. This holistic approach enables the development of sustainable coastal management models that respect environmental needs, economic interests and social considerations.
Our goal is to establish a system that not only protects valuable natural resources, but also promotes the harmonious development of coastal communities and contributes to the long-term prosperity of the region. In this way, we aim to create a balance between nature conservation and sustainable use of coastal resources for present and future generations.
Climate
Coastal areas face special challenges due to climate change, which is manifested in rising sea levels, increased erosion, more frequent and severe storms and changes in the distribution of coastal species. In response to these threats, we focus on supporting comprehensive adaptation measures that increase the resilience of coastal communities and ecosystems. At the same time, we need to raise awareness of the risks associated with climate change and have an open dialogue.
Waste
We are expanding our portfolio of innovative strategies and solutions as part of our comprehensive approach to addressing waste in coastal areas. Our initiatives target the entire waste lifecycle - from waste prevention through to supporting the circular economy.
Our upcoming projects aim to serve as inspirational models and practical demonstrations for other coastal communities around the world. The aim is to demonstrate how waste issues can be effectively and sustainably addressed while respecting the principles of marine conservation and supporting the local economy. Through this holistic approach, we aim to create cleaner, healthier and more resilient coastal areas.
Research
Our efforts focus on intensive research support and systematic data collection on coastal ecosystems, their complex functions, current threats and long-term trends. To deepen our understanding of these sensitive systems, we promote the use of state-of-the-art technologies such as advanced remote sensing methods, sophisticated underwater sensors, and innovative genetic analyses.
We place particular emphasis on the effective sharing and integration of data across different scientific disciplines, enabling a holistic approach to understanding coastal ecosystems. We then use these valuable insights to inform decision-making and implement adaptive management that responds flexibly to changing conditions and new scientific discoveries.
An important part of our approach is the active involvement of students in research activities. We support the creation of internship programs, field courses, and research projects specifically designed for students at different levels - from high school to PhD. In this way, we are not only cultivating a new generation of coastal ecosystem experts, but also bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to our research.
A key goal of our program is to create publicly accessible coastal science centers that operate year-round. These centers serve as multifunctional platforms where scientific research intersects with public education and community activities. Visitors have the unique opportunity to watch scientists at work, participate in interactive workshops, and receive updates on the state of coastal ecosystems.
These centers are designed to support long-term research and monitoring, provide facilities for students and scientists, and serve as an educational hub for local communities and tourists. By operating year-round, they allow seasonal changes in coastal ecosystems to be monitored and provide a continuous stream of data and knowledge. The public accessibility of these centres promotes transparency in the scientific process and helps build stronger links between research and the public, which is key to raising awareness of the importance of coastal conservation.
