The Mediterranean Sea, the leading tourist destination in the world and in France, draws its economic growth from its shores, its coastal uses and its coastal towns. The coastline and the marine environment are home to a significant component of maritime activities, with challenges of economic attractiveness and sustainability. These environments are thus subject to strong anthropogenic pressures and risks, particularly due to climate change. To frame these developments, European or national regulations such as the MSFD (Marine Strategy Framework Directive) or the WFD (Water Framework Directive) establish a framework for community action in the field of water policy or the marine environment.
The scope of this strategic action area covers:
- Protection of the coastal and marine environment — good ecological status and conservation of biodiversity;
- Environmental risks linked to anthropogenic pollution and their effects on coastal and oceanic environments;
- Resilience and adaptation to coastal risks, management of the coastline and associated developments;
- Promotion of coastal heritage and economic sectors linked to recreational and cultural uses.
It also includes instrumental developments, vectors, infrastructure and information systems making it possible to measure and monitor the environment and the quality of environments.
