Proceedings of the INCO-DEV International Workshop on Policy Options for the Sustainable Use of Coral Reefs and Associated Ecosystems

Abstract

The present report contains the proceedings of the INCO-DEV International Workshop on “Policy Options for the Sustainable Use of Coral Reefs and Associated Ecosystems” convened in Mombasa, Kenya, 19-22 June 2000. It was convened to address issues associated with the ongoing degradation of coral reefs and associated ecosystems. This degradation takes place inspite of an impressing body of research results and and increasing number of technical solutions becoming available. Policy options for the sustainable use are only feasible if they allow reconciling the requirements of conservation with the economic and social demands of the people relying on these natural resources. By its very nature this challenge of managing coral reef ecosystems sustainably calls for international and interdisciplinary approaches. The focus of the workshop consisted in analysing how research can better contribute to the formulation and implementation of policy options for sustainable use. A special emphasis was placed on coordinating efforts between natural and social sciences. In four different panels challenges and opportunities concerning economic valuation of, technical options for, and stakeholder involvement in the sustainable use of reefs as well as the issues involved in coordinating policies for Marine Protected Areas on national and international scales were discussed. Working groups focussed on the potentials for improving cooperation between natural and social science research as well as between research on the one hand and policy makers and implementers on the other. Areas of policy intervention discussed include regulation of fisheries, the potential of reef restoration especially in combination with enhancing markets for sustainably produced marine products, tourism and developing alternative income generating activities. The workshop concluded by identifing issues for future research collaboration.