kustplanning

Kustplanning (coastal planning) is the strategic process of managing coastal zones to balance protection from hazards with sustainable development and ecosystem services. It covers land-use planning, flood and erosion risk management, nature conservation, tourism, fisheries, and infrastructure, with attention to social and economic needs of coastal communities. The goal is to create resilient coastlines that can adapt to changing conditions, including sea-level rise, storms, and changing sediment dynamics.

Core elements include risk assessment, stakeholder engagement, and governance frameworks that bring together local, regional, and national authorities, often within an integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) approach. Tools commonly used are shoreline management plans, zoning schemes, sediment management plans, and monitoring programs. Climate adaptation, nature-based solutions such as dune restoration and wetland restoration, and, where needed, engineered defenses are employed.

Challenges include funding, governance fragmentation, data gaps, and cross-border coordination. Successful kustplanning seeks to integrate environmental protection with economic activity, protect public safety, and preserve cultural and natural heritage while supporting sustainable livelihoods such as tourism and fishing. It remains an evolving field as coastal systems respond to climate change and human pressures.