Towards an Improved Understanding of Knowledge Dynamics in Integrated Coastal Zone Management: A Knowledge Systems Framework

Abstract

Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) is a complex undertaking that draws on a range of biophysical and social science disciplines, and involves a wide range of stakeholders operating through multiple processes, and crossing various levels. Conceptually, this means that ICZM represents a significant challenge in terms of improving the way in which different disciplinary 'knowledges' and different forms of knowledge (scientific, managerial, lay, and indigenous) inform decision making. Depending upon the circumstances, ICZM may be constrained by different knowledge deficits, including: uncertainty; science -policy gaps; and the 'filtering' of particular forms of knowledge relative to others. As a means for making sense of these knowledge dynamics, this paper considers the concept of knowledge systems and its potential for improving understanding of coastal management processes. The potential insights that can be gained from four analytical approaches (stakeholder, institutional, network, and discourse analysis) are then discussed, and used to develop an analytical framework for investigating coastal knowledge dynamics, which is based upon a generic coastal knowledge system and associated research questions. Finally, the utility of this framework is illustrated using a case study that examines the knowledge dynamics associated with debates about the establishment of marine protected areas in Victoria, Australia.

Understanding the current state of collaboration in the production and dissemination of adaptation knowledge in Namibia

“…This will require improved collaboration between knowledge generators, intermediary government and non-governmental agencies, and users so as to capture the unique context of each user group in knowledge generation and translation (Hammill et al 2013;Best and Holmes 2010;Harvey et al 2009). As suggested by Kettle et al (2014) and Coffey and O'Toole (2012), getting governmental and non-governmental actors to incorporate traditional practice rooted in local knowledge system in their advisory services might help to improve the delivery of robust adaptation option to the targeted audience. Thus, a hybrid system that draws from scientific knowledge system, practitioner knowledge, and traditional/local knowledge system will be required.…”

Socially robust knowledge in coastal projects

“…The problems addressed in coastal projects tend to be complex and interdependent due to conflicting interests and large knowledge uncertainties in a coastal zone (Weinstein et al, 2007;Coffey and O'Toole, 2012). As such, coastal projects represent a relevant context in which to study socially robust knowledge.…”

Integrating coastal ecosystem values in decision making and policy – a case study of the south-east Queensland region

“…Administrative arrangements to manage the Australian coast occur across three levels of government, involve multiple management levels (Coffey & O'Toole 2012), and in practice often devolve to local government (Caton & Harvey 2010;Harvey, Clarke & Nursery-Bray 2012). In recent years, these arrangements have been shaped further by emergence of the (sub-national) region as an important scale of governance for public policy.…”

“…Different decision structures associate different institutions that exert influence over the processes by which issues are responded to (Coffey & O'Toole 2012). They provide a context for how values can be articulated or expressed, stipulate methods with which to assess trade-offs and ultimately decide how different values should be considered (Vatn 2009).…”

“…In Australia, the coastal zone contains more than 85 percent of the population (DCCEE 2010) and is subject to impacts from increasing human dependence on coastal resources and pressure from development-related activities. Sustainable management of coastal areas is challenged because of complex administrative processes, characterised by decision making that is 'layered' and 'fragmented' (Dale et al 2010), and involves a diversity of people and perspectives (Coffey & O'Toole 2012). The lack of progress toward a more integrated approach partly stems from failure to capture and consider the plurality of interests and values present on the coast , which is compounded by institutional arrangements that constrain the issues and values that can be considered by regional governance units (Alexandra 2012).…”