Environmental discourses: Understanding the implications on ICZM protocol implementation in two Mediterranean deltas

• Complex relationships exist between ideals, ideologies and practice in environmental discourses.
• ICZM has been incorporated in the overall environmental discourse in both Mediterranean deltas.
• Distinct practice discourses were found, having implication on ICZM implementation.

The Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) protocol for the Mediterranean basin provides a common strategy for coastal management that is applicable to all countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. Despite the regionalization of ICZM policy, previous studies have shown that ICZM is being implemented differently across the Mediterranean basin. The differences in ICZM implementation could be attributed to the different environmental discourses that are embedded in the perceptions and socio-cultural values in each site. This study analyzed the differences in environmental discourses as they apply to ICZM policy in two Mediterranean Deltas (Rhone Delta in southern France and Gediz Delta in Western Turkey). A cross-section of 39 (Rhone Delta) and 54 (Gediz Delta) participants contributed to a survey questionnaire. Qualitative and quantitative techniques provided insights into complex relationships between environmental ideals, ideologies and practice in the adoption of ICZM principles. The results demonstrated incorporation of ICZM in environmental discourse in both sites with distinct differences in ICZM strategies. Differences in environmental discourses have implications for applying the ICZM protocol. The identification of these differences provides a more effective focus for conservation strategies accounting for specific context.