Innovative Governance for a Sustainable Future: Barriers and Enablers in the Public Management of Coastal Wetlands in the Valencian Community

Over the last twenty years, the governance and public management of natural resources and spaces in the Valencian Community have undergone significant changes, adapting to modern challenges such as environmental sustainability. This paper aims to evaluate how institutional dynamics and political shifts have influenced the evolution of governance in Valencian coastal wetlands, focusing on the barriers and enablers across five key innovations: the integration of land-sea planning and management; the use of scientific knowledge; citizen participation and engagement; the development of prospective and predictive strategies; and the use of digital tools (Fobé et al., 2024). Moreover, these innovations are categorized into three types: social, technological, and institutional (OCDE, 2018). The study spans from 1994 to 2024, during a period of expanded Valencian self-government that began in the early 1980s.The research addresses gaps identified in comparative literature by examining the practical implications of diffuse roles, coordination challenges, resource limitations, and unequal power dynamics in implementing new governance strategies (Aukes et al., 2020; Platjouw et al., 2024). By exploring these issues in the specific context of Valencian coastal wetlands, the study provides deeper insights into overcoming systemic barriers in coastal governance frameworks (Viñals & Ors, 1995).The study employs qualitative techniques, including documentary, legislative, governmental, and parliamentary content analysis and discourse analysis with key stakeholders (SHs). Data collection methods involve analysing relevant policies and legislative frameworks, as well as interviews with key stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, civil servants and representatives from environmental organizations, to provide additional insights. A comparative analysis of governance models and their effectiveness in addressing environmental challenges is also conducted.