Protecting coastal and marine areas in Peru

Context

The coastal region accounts for more than 70 per cent of Peru’s economic output. While fishing is the main source of income, tourism is making an increasing contribution to economic development and employment. Both areas depend on ecosystem services – such as the supply of fish, seafood and algae as well as space for sport, leisure and education.

However, inadequate surveillance of coastal and marine areas has resulted in people over-exploiting natural resources and weakening ecosystems. Ecosystem-oriented approaches and climate change have not yet been sufficiently included in strategic planning and investment processes.

Ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) to climate change involves measures that are designed to protect ecosystems and ensure that they are used sustainably. The aim here is to increase the resilience of people and nature and stem the consequences of climate change.

Objective

EbA measures are integrated into the strategic planning processes for coastal and marine zones at national, regional and local level and are being implemented in the regions of Piura, Lima and Ica.

Approach

Peruvian scientific research institutions provide environmental, socio-economic and climate change-relevant information. The project processes this information in cooperation with the Leibnitz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) in Bremen. On this basis, effective EbA measures are developed and integrated into the surveillance of coastal and marine areas.

The project also strengthens the political/legal framework for integrated coastal and marine zone management.

The project regions are implementing the EbA approach in three different ecosystems: wetlands, beaches and islands. To support them, the project provides assistance in integrating the EbA approach into governmental and private investment projects in the tourism and fishing industries. It also helps them to develop the competences needed to implement the investment projects.

In addition, the project uses national and international exchange forums to collate and share information about lessons learned and the most successful EbA measures in Peruvian coastal and marine zones.

Last update: November 2022