The management of ocean and coastal resources in Colombia : an assessment

Abstract

This report summarizes the results of an 18-month study of coastal and marine resources development in Colombia. The study was a result of a request by the Direccion General Maritima y Portuaria (DIMAR) of the Colombian Navy to the Marine Policy and Ocean Management Center of WHOI and was carried out jointly with that group. Observations of the present situation and potential for four sectors are presented--fisheries and aquaculture, marine minerals and energy, marine transportation and ports, and tourism and coastal development. The coastal tourism and fisheries sectors appear to be the most promising in terms of near-term potential. Suggestions for achieving increased economic and social benefits from these sectors are provided. In addition, institutional arrangements among the ocean-related agencies in Colombia are reviewed and recommendations aimed at achieving a higher degree of policy integration are offered.