Adaptation technologies and legal instruments to address climate change impacts to coastal and marine resources in Tanzania

Abstract

The increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and the consequent pressures related to climate change are having significant impacts on the coastal and marine resources on which much of Tanzania’s coastal population depends for its livelihood. A decline in mangrove cover, coral bleaching and mortality and the destruction of seagrass beds are some of these impacts. Coastal erosion also poses threats to the country’s coastal tourism infrastructure. This study examines various approaches that integrate protection and conservation of coastal and marine resources. It briefly highlights the global and regional issues while emphasis is put on Tanzanian perspective. Guidelines and reports for management interventions and adaptive technologies are discussed. Environmental protection remains the most preferred approach with variety of options. An overview is given on soft and hard adaptation technologies. Furthermore, Tanzania’s relevant policies and legislation that address climate change impacts to coastal and marine resources are reviewed.

Key words: Climate change, coastal and marine resources, adaptation technologies, legal instruments.