AbstractRapid urban expansion in coastal regions has become a major driver of environmental degradation and marine ecosystem stress across developing and emerging economies. Increasing population growth, industrialization, infrastructure development, and unregulated land-use practices in coastal cities have intensified pollution, habitat destruction, shoreline modification, and biodiversity loss within marine environments. These environmental pressures threaten fisheries, aquatic resources, coastal livelihoods, and long-term ecological sustainability. This article examines the relationship between urban expansion and coastal environmental degradation, with emphasis on the implications for sustainable marine resource management. The study explores how poor urban planning, inadequate waste management systems, and climate-related vulnerabilities contribute to declining coastal ecosystem health. It further analyzes the role of integrated coastal governance, spatial planning, environmental regulation, and sustainable development strategies in reducing ecological pressure on marine systems. Using an interdisciplinary perspective that combines urban and regional planning with environmental and marine sustainability principles, the article highlights the importance of policy coordination, community participation, and ecosystem-based management approaches. The paper concludes that sustainable coastal development requires stronger environmental governance frameworks, improved urban planning systems, and long-term investment in climate-resilient coastal infrastructure to ensure the protection and sustainable utilization of marine resources.
Annabel Philomena Udeh (Fri,) studied this question.