Reboreda, R., Körfer, A., Schernewski, G., Pickaver, A.: Coastal Management in Germany, Coastline (Special Issue) (16 (1)). EUCC - The Coastal Union, Leiden, 2007.

The German coast is divided between the North and Baltic Seas. This is not only a spatial division. A different genesis, tidal range, salinity, exposure etc. have caused a distinct coastline and distinct coastal ecosystems. The major coastal uses and the cultural heritage are not the same and the federal system in Germany supports a largely independent management of both regions. However, during the last years the need for an integrated coastal development has become more and more obvious. Many research, planning and management activities have been initiated and the similarities between the Baltic and North Sea approaches have become apparent. The co-operation and exchange of information between coastal researchers and practitioners as well as the exchange between the regions has also become much more intensive. This development was supported by the discussion-process about the national strategy for an Integrated Coastal Zone Management. EUCC – The Coastal Union Germany which is responsible for an electronic coastal newsletter (with nearly 1000 subscribers) and the provision of several coastal information and dissemination tools has supported the growth of a joint coastal community in Germany. However, this German coastal research, planning and management activities are not very well perceived abroad. This was the background for the current Coastline issue. We would like to give you a short overview of at least some ongoing coastal activities in Germany. We hope this information will help to increase the international cooperation between our German coastal community and the rest of Europe.