Indicators for an ICZM. Experience with a problem-oriented approach

The article describes the approach chosen for the development of indicators for an ICZM in the Oder estuary region (Germany, south-western Baltic Sea). The development of indicators focuses on regional problems. A bottom-up-approach based on the inductive description and assessment of problems is combined with a top-down-approach including the deductive differentiation of an integrative sustainable development model. At the interface of the problem-orientated bottom-up-approach and the norm-orientated top-down-approach, indicators specify the issues discussed. This means linking the minimum demands made by sustainable development to the specific regional problems. The regional approach provides the following results: a high degree of orientation towards existing problems and user needs, the vertical integration of the issues discussed at the international and European level, and links to the concept of sustainability. © Springer Science + Business Media B.V. 2009.