Community-Based Adaptive Governance Model for Colombian Tourist Beaches: The Case of Playa Blanca in Santa Marta, Colombia

This paper aims to present a process that led to the development of a community-based adaptive governance model for tourist beaches as a significant step toward consolidating an integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) program at the local level. This research spans 16 years of work conducted in Playa Blanca, Santa Marta, Colombia, from 2008 to 2024. A qualitative social research methodology was employed using content analysis as the primary technique. The Force-Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) model, the ASAS method, two expert panels, and eight community workshops were carried out as part of the study. As a result, the concept of community-based adaptive governance for tourist beaches was developed, leading to the design of a Model of Adaptive Governance based on Communities for Tourist Beaches (known in Spanish as GABCO-PLAYTUR). This model emphasizes the empowerment and active involvement of local actors. National and international experts, along with regional and local stakeholders, have validated the GABCO-PLAYTUR Model to ensure its effectiveness in beach management. When applying this model, the results indicated that the primary pressures on the Playa Blanca ecosystem were related to tourism activities. Additionally, the study revealed that inefficient coordination among the various actors involved in decision-making processes affects the socio-ecosystem. In conclusion, the relevance of the governance model in Playa Blanca was confirmed, illustrating a complex process with both progress and setbacks that evolve over time. While the community actors demonstrated high levels of organization and leadership in beach management, the role of institutions in this process was less prominent during the period analyzed.