Milieu contributes to study on resilience and local economic development in EU coastal communities

Milieu has contributed to the Study on Resilience and Local Economic Development in EU Coastal Communities, carried out for the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) and the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). The study has now been published.

EU coastal communities are home to more than 90 million residents and generate nearly 38% of EU GDP. At the same time, they face increasing pressures from climate change, demographic shifts and economic vulnerabilities. Understanding how these communities can strengthen resilience and sustain local development is increasingly important, particularly in the context of the European Ocean Pact.

The study provides a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment of the socio-economic and environmental situation of coastal communities across 22 Member States. It examines who these communities are, the challenges they face, and the role of EU funding in supporting their resilience. Its recommendations aim to strengthen data systems, improve access to funding, foster blue economy innovation and enhance governance for coastal communities.

Milieu carried out this work alongside its partners Ecorys, Stratégies Mer et Littoral and BlueFarm, drawing on a combination of quantitative analysis, case studies and stakeholder consultation.

The findings are intended to help shape stronger, more targeted EU support for coastal communities under the European Ocean Pact and beyond, contributing to more resilient and sustainable local economies along Europe’s coasts.

Further information is available here.