Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Continental Ecuador and Galapagos Islands: Challenges and Opportunities in a Changing Tourism and Economic Context

Despite receiving international support for training and financing, Ecuador's integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) faces significant challenges due to economic and administrative instability. This study highlights that such discontinuities hinder the development of tourism and economic growth in coastal areas, including the Galápagos Islands. The research analyzed ten key elements—policies, regulations, institutions, strategies, instruments, information, education, resources, managers, and participation—to assess national coastal management. Findings suggest that while Ecuador has made progress, sustained efforts are needed to strengthen gastronomic and cultural aspects in new policies to overcome these obstacles.

Mestanza-Ramón, C., Capa, M. S., Saavedra, H. F., & Paredes, J. R. (2019). Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Continental Ecuador and Galapagos Islands: Challenges and Opportunities in a Changing Tourism and Economic Context. Sustainability, 11(22), 6386. https://doi.org/10.3390/su11226386