To Enhance Delta Resilience.. National Water Research Center Discusses the First Draft of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Plan
In a strategic step towards enhancing the resilience of the Egyptian coastline against global climate challenges, the National Water Research Center (NWRC) held an extensive meeting to discuss the first draft of the "Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Plan," as part of the activities of the "Enhancing Climate Change Adaptation in the North Coast and Nile Delta Regions" project.
Research Leadership and High-Level Coordination
The meeting was chaired by Prof. Dr. Ayman El-Saadi, Vice President of the Center for Research Plan Affairs, with active participation from state leaders and representatives, notably:
Eng. Mohamed Ghattas, Head of the Egyptian General Authority for Shore Protection; Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Ali, Project Manager; and a selection of representatives from the Minister’s Office, specialized research institutes, the Strategic Management Sector, and the Technical Office of the Center’s President.
A Roadmap for Coastal Protection
The meeting focused on reviewing the first draft of the plan, which serves as a cornerstone in supporting Egyptian state efforts to address challenges resulting from climate change. The strength of this plan lies in its comprehensiveness, targeting impact across four key levels:
National Level: Formulating a unified vision to protect Egypt's coastal assets.
Decision-Makers: Providing accurate data to support public policy.
Leadership and Administrative Level: Harmonizing working mechanisms across different entities.
Local Level: Empowering coastal governorates with sustainable planning tools.
Scientific and Global Research Foundations
The meeting featured an in-depth review of the mathematical models and advanced technical studies formulated by international and national experts. These models are the primary driver for preparing an integrated plan based on "precise scientific forecasting," which enhances the efficiency of field interventions to strengthen the ability of the Delta and North Coast regions to adapt to sea-level rise and extreme weather events.
"Integrating efforts between international expertise and national capabilities is the true guarantee to deliver a final version of the plan that aligns with global standards and meets local needs in protecting natural resources."
Towards Resource Sustainability
The participants concluded the meeting by emphasizing the necessity of intensifying joint coordination during the next phase to finalize the plan. This cooperation aims to ensure the realization of the project's objectives in sustainable natural resource management, and the securing of population centers and economic investments in the Delta and North Coast regions, in line with Egypt's sustainable development vision.
