FAQs

Rare helped launch Coastal 500 on World Ocean Day (June 8) 2021. 

Currently, Coastal 500 consists of 417 local leaders and local leaders from communities in Brazil, Guatemala, Honduras, Indonesia, Micronesia, Mozambique, Palau, and the Philippines. 

The ocean waters extending 12 nautical miles from shore make up only 6% of the world’s ocean but are home to 70% of its biodiversity. All of the world’s mangroves, seagrass beds, and most coral reefs on the planet are found within these waters. This is also the area of the ocean where biodiversity intersects with human use. According to the UN, nearly 2.4 billion people live within 100 kilometers of the coast. Nearly 500 million people, at least partially, depend on small-scale fisheries, most of which are located in coastal waters. This is why we refer to these waters as “the community seas.” 

Leaders commit to the Member Pledge, taking concrete actions to sustainably manage their coastal resources, support small-scale fishers, and advance policies that safeguard their municipality’s future. They also agree to share their experiences and contribute to the network’s collective learning and advocacy.

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Membership is open to local government leaders including mayors (or equivalent, based on local context) from coastal municipalities committed to the network’s vision and willing to act under the Member Pledge.

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Members gain access to leadership development, peer mentorship, technical resources, strategic partnerships, global advocacy platforms, opportunities for recognition and more. The network equips members with knowledge, tools, and connections to achieve lasting impact for their
municipality.

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No! Membership is free, with activities funded through network partners and supporters.

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Coastal 500 is the only global network focused specifically on empowering mayors and local government leaders to lead coastal sustainability. It combines peer-to-peer learning, global advocacy, and practical tools for direct local action.

Engagement is flexible. Members are encouraged to participate in at least two network activities per year, such as forums, workshops, or advocacy campaigns, and to share progress on their pledge actions.

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Members receive access to resources, expert advice, financing opportunities (as they are developed), and a global network of peers to help implement solutions in their communities.

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Members can present at network forums, be featured in spotlights and case studies, and in the future, nominate themselves or peers for global awards and recognition

Yes. While membership is for the local government leader, municipal staff can take part in trainings, workshops, and other capacity-building opportunities.

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Members remain part of the network’s alumni community, with opportunities to mentor new members and continue contributing to the network’s goals.

The Global Steering Committee is a volunteer leadership body of 10–12 members who guide network priorities and represent Coastal 500 globally. Members can be nominated or apply when positions open. Members serving a term on the Steering Committee will contribute approximately 1-2 hours per month.

Coastal 500 is the world’s largest network of mayors and local government leaders dedicated to protecting coastal communities and the oceans that sustain them.

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