Research suggests that of the 17 biggest cities in the world, about 14 are located along the coasts. Millions of people move towards the coasts in search of a better life. The coastal and marine ecosystems provide vital services to people moving to these regions.
Yet, these coastal environments are increasingly under threat. The large populations of people need access to many resources and services such as sewage treatment facilities and infrastructure developments.
Without effective governance and investments, it can lead to the severe degradation of marine and coastal regions. Most coastal areas depend on fishing fleets and tourism to sustain their bustling economies.
When fishing and other coastal activities go unchecked or without being regulated, it can lead to the degradation of fishing habitats, mangroves, salt marshes, blue forests, and coral reefs.
This can result in coastal regions losing their ability to provide the vital services upon which human health and well-being depend. It is thus important to preserve these vital coastal ecosystems.
Governments need the tools that will help them to create awareness about protecting and preserving coastal and marine ecosystems. Communities and governments also need to make collective contributions toward the safeguarding of our oceans.
People from all walks of life can contribute to these efforts. Leaders in society, regional policymakers, and international researchers need to come together to discuss the immense benefits of protecting coastal ecosystems.
Workshops and events can help to spread the message about more sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches. The world needs to find innovative solutions to the numerous challenges posed by unregulated fishing, overfishing, and the alarming number of incidents that pollute our oceans and environment.
Ever-expanding coastal activities need to be monitored and regulated to ensure that our coastal ecosystems can continue to thrive. It is important for society to create an environment where future generations can thrive. The preservation and protection of our coastal regions should be on top of the agenda.
Readers can learn more about the importance of sustainable developments along our coastal regions by following Save Bastion Point.