coastalsea

Coastal sea refers to the marine waters that lie adjacent to a country's coastline. This zone typically extends from the shoreline out to a distance of 12 nautical miles, which is recognized as the territorial sea under international law. The coastal sea is an area of significant ecological, economic, and political importance. Ecologically, it is a dynamic environment characterized by a mix of freshwater runoff from land and saltwater from the open ocean, leading to diverse habitats such as estuaries, salt marshes, and seagrass beds. These areas are often highly productive and support a wide array of marine life, including fish, shellfish, and seabirds. Economically, coastal seas are vital for fisheries, tourism, and shipping. Many coastal communities rely heavily on the resources found within these waters for their livelihoods. Politically, the coastal sea is subject to the sovereignty of the adjacent state, which has the right to regulate activities within this zone, including fishing, resource extraction, and navigation. Beyond the territorial sea, nations also have rights and responsibilities in the contiguous zone and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), which extend further out into the ocean.