Coastal zone management indicators for sustainability in ten Latin American countries

Abstract

Introduction: Coastal zones and climate change. This paper analyses coastal zone management and socio-economic indicators regarding sustainability in ten Latin American countries in 2020, using 22 indicators. The study focuses on two key research questions: RQ1: How have these countries performed in terms of sustainability and their socio-economic development indicators? RQ2: Can some countries be identified as benchmarks, according to their overall performance?  Methodology: Data from secondary sources such as CEPAL and the United Nations were considered using hierarchical cluster analysis (Ward’s method) to identify countries with similar patterns of behaviour. Results: The analysis revealed four clusters: CL1: Costa Rica, Panama, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua. CL2: Ecuador, Peru, Colombia. CL3: Chile. CL4: Mexico. Discussion: The analysis revealed important differences between these countries in their coastal management for sustainability. Despite efforts to improve, overall progress remains slow. The benchmark countries identified in each cluster offer valuable insights for policymakers in neighbouring regions, in areas such as applying blue economy strategies and achieving sustainable development goals. Conclusion: This research contributes to increasing public confidence in government effectiveness in optimising the sustainable tourism value chain, thereby promoting broader social-economic improvements in coastal communities in Latin America.