The Danube Delta is the largest European wetland forming also one of the greatest natural water purification systems of Europe. Along the Northern coast (Musura Bay to Cape Midia, 165 km) where the impressive Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve is located, the main management concern is nature preservation.

Wetland degradation, loss of biodiversity, impacts of extreme events and increasing vulnerabilities of ecosystems and local population livelihoods are important problems identified in these areas.

This pilot case which aims to assess the opportunities versus the vulnerabilities and risks associated with long-term development of the delta´s coastal and marine zone, will prepare an Action Plan for the Sulina and Sfantu Gheorghe region that fit in with the ICZM protocol and Romanian´s legislation. The guidance elements for this process include the creation of a homogeneous database with all the existing information, the development of thematic maps on pressures and resources, the preparation of a framework for maritime spatial planning using GIS digital maps and the elaboration of a preliminary ICZM strategy for consultation with stakeholders. Further fundraising activities will need to be later on incorporated to ensure the continuation of the work.

To ensure a well structure approach to the management of this coast, group works using the SketchMetch method (a spatial planning tool) are further planned by the project team to search and find solutions to potential development alternatives. Small-scale socioeconomics surveys under progress to assist these workshops.
The first working group session with SketchMetch will be implemented in September 2012 in Sulina. Based on these results, it might be replicated in Sfantu Gheorge.

The case supervisor is Iulian Nichersu, Danube Delta National Institute for Research and Development, Tulcea.