Shorelines management: The French approach

Abstract

Although France does not have a specific law dealing with shorelines management, various policies and policy instruments exist which enable a certain amount of control over the shoreline development process. This article discusses the various institutional arrangements in France as they relate to (1) problems of marine pollution, (2) the control of land‐based pressures for shoreline use and development, and (3) the creation of a new shorelands trust. The role of existing institutions, such as the six river basin agencies, is also discussed.