Step 2: Understand the System

Short Definition

This step focuses on building a shared understanding of how the coastal system functions — its natural processes, human activities, and social dynamics. By examining ecological, economic, and social interactions together, stakeholders can identify the pressures, dependencies, and opportunities that shape coastal resilience. The goal is to create a common knowledge base that allows all participants to see the system as a whole before designing solutions.

Extended Methodology Explanation

Understanding the system is the analytical foundation of every Living Lab. It helps the Community of Practice develop a collective view of the local context — what drives change, what causes degradation, and where the greatest potential for restoration and innovation lies.

1. Systems Thinking and Integration
Adopt a systems-thinking approach that recognizes the coast as a living, interconnected system. Natural, social, and economic components influence one another through feedback loops. Integrating different knowledge sources — scientific data, local observations, and policy insights — helps reveal these connections and dependencies.

2. Data Collection and Mapping
Gather spatial, ecological, and socio-economic information relevant to the study area. Examples include habitat maps, water quality data, socio-demographic trends, and policy instruments. Use participatory mapping sessions to incorporate local knowledge, ensuring that the dataset reflects both scientific and experiential understanding.

3. Analytical Frameworks
Apply structured analytical tools to organize and interpret the information:

• PESTLE analysis to identify political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors shaping the system.

• DPSIR framework to trace causal relationships between drivers (e.g., land use, tourism), pressures (pollution, overfishing), state changes (habitat loss), impacts (reduced resilience), and responses (policy or restoration actions).

• Ecosystem service assessment to identify benefits the ecosystem provides and where they are at risk.

• Stakeholder mapping to understand who influences or is affected by each part of the system.

4. Visualization and Communication
Translate complex data into accessible visuals such as system maps, causal-loop diagrams, or storyboards. These tools help all participants — technical and non-technical alike — grasp how different forces interact. Sharing these visuals during workshops promotes dialogue and alignment on the system’s key challenges.

5. Identification of Leverage Points
Through joint analysis, identify leverage points — areas where small changes could produce significant positive impact. These may include policy gaps, degraded habitats, or social behaviors that can be influenced through targeted interventions.

6. Synthesis and Knowledge Sharing
Summarize findings into a concise system diagnosis that will guide later steps in the Living Lab cycle. The document should outline the main pressures, interdependencies, risks, and opportunities and be approved collectively by the CoP to ensure shared ownership of the results.

The outcome is a living, continuously updated model of the coastal system that becomes the foundation for co-designing Nature-based Solutions and policy measures.