Coastal Contract: A Governance Approach for Integrated Wetland Management

Key Learnings

• Collaboration among different levels of governance (local and regional) and between public and private sectors towards the integrated management of the Gulf of Oristano.
• Engagement of local communities raises awareness of the importance of wetlands as natural water retention areas in case of climatic events.
• Monitor wetland status by a Local Wetland Observatory (LWO) to support decision-making.
• Funding: Better cooperation and planning enabled a more coordinated search for funding.

Summary

The efforts to develop and implement the Coastal Contract in the Gulf of Oristano demonstrate a commitment to integrated, multi-level and participatory governance of wetlands by all stakeholders involved. This approach is reshaping the management of wetlands, focusing on their role in mitigating climate change impacts and promoting a green economy. The progress of this initiative sets a model for sustainable conservation and effective governance, inspiring other regions to adopt similar practices for a resilient Europe.

Contact

Name: Manuela Puddu and Francesca Etzi

Organisation: Mediterranean Sea and Coast Foundation | MEDSEA

Email: manuelapuddumedseafoundation [dot] org (manuelapuddu[at]medseafoundation[dot]org), francescaetzimedseafoundation [dot] org (francescaetzi[at]medseafoundation[dot]org)