A study on the development of marine functional zoning in China and its guiding principles for Pakistan

Increasing demands for coastal and marine natural resources have led to an excessive degradation of marine habitats, nursery grounds, coastal erosion, and resources depletion, which threaten the marine environment. Currently, the Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) is attracting attention in coastal states worldwide; it is considered a management tool for conservation and rational utilization of marine resources. MSP generally refers to the Marine Functional Zoning (MFZ) in China, which is regarded as a strong management strategy to protect, conserve, manage, and maintain sustainable coastal and marine natural resources. This study analyzes the connotation, development, law enforcement, and management strategies of MFZ in China and guiding principles for Pakistan. Pakistan has a long coastline but still facing several problems due to a lack of strategic planning management. According to findings of this study, the guiding principles of the China's MFZ for Pakistan mainly include dividing the ocean into different functional units; involvement of the State and local agencies in the decision-making process; marine resource allocation based on natural carrying capacity; establishment of MFZ laws and legislation; promotion of marine science and technology development; and stakeholder participation in MFZ scheme. A SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis was carried out based on 3D MSP approach to ascertain Pakistan's current and future coastal and marine management practices and issues. This study will provide a baseline to coastal planners and developers in Pakistan for the allocation of coastal and marine resources on the basis of their natural carrying capacity and sustainable utilization.