Operational modelling for coastal zone management - experiences from OPCOM and application possibilities for environmental impact assessment

Within the framework of the OPCOM project, operational and pre-operational tools have been developed to help the local players and decision-makers in managing the coastal environment. In this context operational or pre-operational model systems were applied to four very different coastal zones. The results were analysed for coastal zone management purposes according to the specific local demands for coastal man-agement in close co-operation with possible first users. This publication describes the experience and most important conclusions derived in the OPCOM project regarding the importance and application possibilities of local operational models in integrated coastal zone management.