Alves, F. L., Silva, C. P. and Pinto, P., 2007. The Assessment of Coastal Zone Development at a Regional Level – the case study of the Portuguese Central Area. Journal of Coastal Research, SI 50 (Proceedings of the 9th International Coastal Symposium), 72 – 76. Gold Coast, Australia, ISSN 0749.0208

The Portuguese mainland coast is entirely covered by Coastal Zone Management Plans (CZMP). Those plans show that there are great opportunities and strategic values at the Portuguese Coast from the socio-economic and environmental point of view. Therefore, the coast is also under a huge pressure, as result of a fast growing development intensified since the mid 50's of the 20th century.

This situation can be exemplified at the Central Portugal Coastal Zone, classified as a highly vulnerable area to coastal erosion, with a strong demographic pressure and human activities associated. This trend does not show any marks of slowing down, increasing the level of vulnerability for coastal population and settlements. As also the risk, reinforced by sea level rise due to climate change. The methodology used for the assessment of this development was based on a large set of thematic indicators: environment, socioeconomic and governance. The results identify problematic areas and the priority actions to be taken by the central administration towards the application of Sustainable Development principles.

This paper also points out the importance of the establishment of a National Coastal Observatory, for assessing and monitoring the development of the Portuguese Coastal Zone at a regional level. In addition is also enhanced the importance of these regional structures to the national Decision Support System (DSS).