A Importância da Abordagem Experimental para o Progresso da Gestão Costeira Integrada

Abstract

This paper argues that integrated coastal management should make wide use of the experimental approach to test management predictions. To support such proposal, the paper initially discusses the difference between objectives of scientific investigations and those of management. Using examples from the academic literature, it is argued that the aim of coastal science is to increase knowledge about coastal systems, while management is focused on making good decisions about people’s use of these systems. The concept of integration is briefly discussed, highlighting the need of integration between science and management. Then, the text highlights the progress achieved in the recent past by scientific studies in coastal ecology, which explicitly used experimental methods. An adequate use of controls, replication and randomization allowed experimental ecology to test clear predictions about patterns and processes in coastal ecosystems. Lastly, the concept of adaptive coastal management is presented. This is a type of management that clearly states what is expected to happen as a consequence of management decisions. These managerial predictions permit the test of the effectiveness of those decisions. Despite its importance, adaptive management is not widely practiced in Brazil. Therefore, Brazilian coastal managers are invited to state what they expect to happen when management action is taken, in order to allow the proposition of adaptations that may contribute to the advance of integrated coastal management in Brazil.