Sida's Involvement in and Support to Research in the Western Indian Ocean

摘要

The interface between land and sea is an area where humans have found resources since pre-historical times. Today, most large cities are situated on or near the coast and the populations in these areas are growing. Around two thirds of humanity now live in the coastal areas of the world's continents. Migration to coastal areas continues not least in developing regions of the world where coastal areas provide a tremendous potential for trade, commerce, industry, and tourism. In some developing countries, coastal tourism constitutes the major industry. Another important resource in these countries is the deposits of petroleum on the continental shelf. In the near future, offshore production may be the main source of oil and gas. At the same time, as these potentials are being developed, millions of households depend on coastal resources for their daily livelihoods. The environmental implications of this are enormous. How can countries with very limited financial and administrative/research resources manage their coastal areas in ways that hinder environmental degradation and sustain resources?