Coastal zone planning in Denmark

Abstract

The extended coastline of Denmark is with its variety and diversity considered unique in Europe, and the birdlife along the coasts is of international importance. The coasts are highly exposed to wind and sea. Denmark is traditionally a maritime nation and coastal towns and cities have for centuries been the basis for trade and fisheries. Therefore, 80% of the Danish population lives today in the coastal areas, 56% of the population lives in coastal cities and towns, and one-third of the coastline is developed. Coastal management is based on an awareness that the coastal areas have become a scarce natural resource that should be protected, and also in order to promote future economic development. A decentralized system for horizontal and vertical integration of decision-making processes has been developed over the past 20 years. It promotes compatibility and a balance of uses, environmental assessments and public participation. As a result, a wide range of problem areas impinging upon coastal areas are recurrently assessed and reconciled. Experience suggests that the solutions are not always optimal but are pragmatic compromises, and that results are not achieved by legal requirements alone, but primarily by the legally prescribed negotiations that occur horizontally between various sectors and vertically between national, county and municipal authorities.