Tangible ways forward

The World Bank and the United Nations have urged for action to be taken to reverse the negative trends regarding the oceans and coasts for more than 25 years, for example at the Earth Summit in Rio and its Agenda 21. Implementation is long overdue. Global strategies on emissions reductions are urgently needed, especially related to bunker fuels in international aviation and cruises.

When developing tourism, marine and coastal areas should be protected, left intact and managed as ecosystems. Construction close to the shore should be prohibited and no construction should happen without proper management of water, sewage and waste. Educating tourists and especially people doing water sports may contribute to reducing impacts on ecosystems.

Safeguarding the livelihood of coastal communities needs to be given priority over the interests of tourists and tourism businesses, with strategies for the sustainable use of marine resources, including for small-scale artisanal fisheries. Tourism should support food security and social equity. Meaningful linkages with coastal economic sectors such as agriculture, fisheries and services can significantly increase local value added.

Any tourism development must start with codetermination and the participation of local communities. Research and capacity building help to build on local knowledge and develop innovative solutions.

Subsidies for bunker fuels and the most damaging modes of transport and sources of energy must be abolished. Prices must reflect the real costs, including social and ecological costs.

Appropriate coordinating mechanisms for integrated policies and international cooperation and coordination need to be established or strengthened. Effective governance structures need to set goals with realistic and applicable criteria and monitoring. International cooperation can help guarantee sustainable development of the areas beyond national jurisdiction, including international waters, and needs to be enhanced