Human epoch - Human responsibility: Rethinking coastal zone management in the Anthropocene

Abstract

The Anthropocene signifies a monumental transformation where human influence on Earth's biophysical systems has become undeniable, necessitating a new perspective on environmental management, especially for critical areas like coastal zones. These regions, poised at the intersection of land and sea, are increasingly impacted by anthropogenic pressures ranging from overfishing and pollution to extreme urbanization, and climate change effects such as sea-level rise and intensified storm events. Thus, effective and sustainable management of the coastal zone has never been more paramount. The Coastal Zone Management (CZM) approach offers a solution with its dynamic, iterative, and collaborative processes aimed at sustainable use and protection of coastal zones. Yet, CZM implementation in the Anthropocene is fraught with challenges such as enhanced integration among varied jurisdictional boundaries and legislative frameworks, stakeholder conflicts, socioeconomic pressures, and rapid environmental changes. However, the Anthropocene, despite the challenges it poses, also provides opportunities for innovation, learning, and adaptation in CZM. With its roots in the principles of integration and precaution, CZM encourages a holistic understanding of issues and emphasizes proactive and preventive action, making it well-suited to manage uncertainties in this time. To cope with CZM challenges, strategies should emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, adaptive management, stakeholder engagement, policy integration and coordination, sustainable financing, building resilience, and capacity building and education. In the face of the Anthropocene, it's imperative to embrace an anticipatory approach to coastal management, capable of predicting and preemptively addressing future challenges. As we navigate the Anthropocene, our focus should not only be on conservation, but also on finding ways to coexist harmoniously with our environment, ensuring sustainable and resilient coastal zones for future generations.