Introduction to Marine and Coastal Water Quality Management

Objective

This course aims to empower participants with a comprehensive understanding of water quality, with a focus on its importance in the Caribbean region.

The course provides a high-level introduction to the concept of water quality in the coastal and marine environment, exploring risks to water quality and its impacts, different pollution sources, and the role monitoring and regulation play in protecting the quality of the Caribbean water.

What you will learn

• Improves participants’ understanding of the importance of water quality in relation to the coastal and marine environment.
• Environmental, economic, and social linkages.
• Equips participants with the concepts and approaches to take an active role in managing water quality in the Caribbean region.

About this course

This online course offers a foundational introduction to the key concepts, challenges, and solutions related to marine and coastal water quality monitoring and management. Designed for policymakers, environmental managers, and professionals, this course helps participants understand the critical role of water quality in marine ecosystem health, public well-being, and sustainable socio-economic development.

Through a mix of presentations, videos, interactive exercises, case studies, and quizzes, participants will explore the basic characteristics of marine and coastal water quality and the various sources and types of pollution. The course outlines how pollution affects marine ecosystems, human health, and livelihoods, emphasizing the urgency of integrated, science-based strategies for prevention and reduction.

Participants will be introduced to effective water quality monitoring practices and learn the importance of sound data management and clear communication of findings to both decision-makers and the public. In addition, the course will explore how policies on water quality criteria are applied to regulate and control pollution, helping participants connect scientific understanding with governance and compliance. Real-world case studies will demonstrate how successful water quality monitoring can be adapted to diverse local contexts, encouraging participants to take action in their own areas.

This course serves as an essential starting point for those wishing to continue to more advanced courses. It builds awareness, strengthens cross-sector understanding, and inspires leadership at all levels, empowering professionals to make informed decisions that protect marine and coastal waters.

By the end of the session, participants will have a strong conceptual foundation and be equipped with practical knowledge to assess, monitor, and support the sustainable management of marine and coastal water quality.

Learning objectives

By the end of this introductory course, participants will be able to:

• Recognise the importance of preventing marine and coastal pollution to avoid environmental, health, and socio-economic impacts.
• Understand key concepts and characteristics related to marine and coastal water quality and pollution sources.
• Appreciate the role and importance of effective water quality monitoring, data management, and reporting.
• Understand how policies on water quality criteria are used to regulate and control pollution.
• Apply foundational knowledge to support informed decision-making in preventing and mitigating marine and coastal pollution.