What is it about?
This study investigates how marinas and sailing clubs in Spain interact with and present the marine and coastal environments that surround them. By reviewing 215 marina websites, the research assesses whether these institutions communicate and promote the natural resources they depend on for recreational boating. The study focuses on how these facilities use and showcase nearby ecosystems, such as beaches, marine habitats, and coastal landscapes, and whether this usage aligns with principles of sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
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Photo by Benoit Debaix on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Recreational boating is a growing sector with strong economic, social, and cultural value in coastal regions. However, the sustainability of this activity relies heavily on the responsible use of marine and coastal resources. The study reveals that most Spanish marinas pay little attention to communicating environmental information, missing an opportunity to educate the public and promote conservation. This lack of awareness and transparency may contribute to environmental degradation and conflicts in coastal areas. Enhancing sustainability practices and improving public communication can foster healthier ecosystems and more resilient tourism economies.
Perspectives
This research highlights the need for a paradigm shift in how marinas engage with their natural surroundings. Despite their dependence on healthy marine and coastal ecosystems, most marinas neglect to showcase or promote environmental awareness. This gap reflects a broader challenge in the recreational boating sector, where economic and leisure interests often take precedence over ecological responsibility. By bringing attention to this disconnect, the study urges for stronger collaborations between port authorities, environmental agencies, tourism boards, and local communities to develop integrated strategies that support both ecological sustainability and high-quality tourist experiences. Future work could expand this analysis internationally or explore how digital communication tools can foster marine environmental literacy among recreational users.
Dr. María Dolores De-Juan-Vigaray
Universitat d'Alacant
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Marine and coastal natural resources in the recreational boating sector in Spain: State of the art and changes needed, Ocean & Coastal Management, March 2025, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2025.107580.
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