“Where the Land Meets the Sea”—ICZM Implementation in Estonia

The chapter introduces the Integrated Coastal Zone Management and process of developing ICZM in Estonia. In this chapter will be described co-developed different approaches for land-sea interactions in two case areas in Estonia based on the defined characteristics and key interests, which are derived from local or regional challenges. In doing so we integrate spatial data on human activities and ecology. Paragraph on “Data integration” gives overview on different possibilities on data integration from nature and human activities to present integrated human-ecological networks. Especially produced GIS information about environmental research projects and of participatory planning were utilised. Outcomes of visualized thematic maps covering the case areas are presented. The section “Stakeholder involvement” describes how different interests were integrated in the preparation of the plans considering the sea-land interface (e.g. human and nature values, recreation areas, maintenance of blue-green networks, construction of housing). That included such activities as deployment of e-platforms and working group sessions with different stakeholders and end-users, as well as involvement of local residents, stakeholders and steering group members. The section “Results” gives an overview of ICZM plans developed for different coastal areas, and describes how these plans are used by spatial planners dealing with coastal accessibility and coastal tourism. The description of ICZM plans provide an ample set of integrated knowledge and links to experts to support local-level planning. Finally, the chapter offers conclusions about the implementation of socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable coastal and spatial plans, which are based on the diversification of coastal land use.