Coastal Biodiversity and Ecosystems
Over 60 % of the world's people live within 60 kilometres of the sea. Coastal and marine environment is strongly influenced by human activities, via local pressure or climate change. Yet ecosystems of coastal areas, small islands and mangroves have a crucial value. UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme activities span protection, scientific research and human use.

UNESCO Sector: Division of Ecological and Earth Sciences
Responsible Staff: Miguel Clusener-Godt
More information: http://www.unesco.org/mab/ecosyst/islands.shtml