The rights of coastal communities in marine management: Lessons learnt by the Community of Arran Seabed T rust (COAST)

Abstract

In this article the story of how an island community in Scotland has protected its marine resources from unsustainable economic activities as well as gaining the recognition for coastal communities to participate in the decisions that affect their waters and more just and sustainable marine management. This community was responsible for the designation in 2008 of the Lamlash Bay Community Marine Reserve despite the absence of a legal framework for marine protection. During the past four years, European legislation and pressure from smaller and larger environmental NGOs as well as artisanal and recreational fishing associations has impulse the designation of a network of marine protected areas in Scotland. Twenty years of action and community learning has allowed the group to develop its skills and capacity to take part, as well as strengthening its links with fishing associations, community groups and governmental and scientific organisations. This article presents our reflections on critical factors that facilitate the empowerment of the community of Arran.