Nine out of ten Australians live within 50 kilometers of the coast. By the year 2030, it is estimated that 21 million people are likely to live near the coast. As well as being a favorite place to live, the coast is the most popular destination for tourists and visitors of all ages. Industry is also drawn to coastal areas because of access to transport. Nearly 50 percent of Australia’s gross domestic product is produced in coastal urban areas. All of the activities impact on coastal environment and ecosystems as well as on the quality of life we experience as residents or visitors.
The Coastal Zone:
The coastal zone includes the coastal hinterland and the inner continental shelf as well as everything in between, such as beaches and estuaries. The coast is the interface where the ocean meets the land. Within Australia’s coastal zone there are many different environments including mountain ranges, flood plains, river and lakes, rain forests, wetlands, mangrove areas, beaches, coral reefs, sea grass beds and the continental shelf. All of these environments must be managed in a sustainable manner to enable future generations to enjoy Australia’s natural beauty. Sustainable development and management means that our use of coastal resources meets the needs of the present population without endangering the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Coastal Management:
A Geographical Issue
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Examples of Australian World Heritage Site located within the coastal zone:
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The Great Barrier Reef
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Lord Howe Island
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Fraser Island
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Shark Bay
Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage sites are found within the coastal zone.
The identification and preservation of middens, art sites, fish traps, stone and ochre quarries, burial and religious sites must be considered when developing management plans.
Perspectives:
In the past, decision makers had limited knowledge about the fragil nature of many coastal ecosystems and they had different perspectives about the use of coastal areas.
To manage the coast sustainably we need to understand:
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The coastal environment and the effect of physical processes
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The effect of human activities within the coastal zone
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The different perspectives of coastal users
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How to achieve a balance between conservation and development
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How decisions are made about the ways in which coasts will be used
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How to evaluate the success of individuals, groups and the level of governments in managing coastal issues
Perspectives:
Extension Activity:
Sample Study- Severe erosion of Bilgola Beach
Observe the sample study:
1. Sketch one of the photographs.
2. Describe what has happened in the above images.
3. Research and explain the changes in the attitudes from 1967 to 1974