The use of Q-Methodology to Obtain Stakeholder Discourses on the Future Development of Ria Formosa Coastal Zone, South of Portugal

Abstract

Any effective strategy for nature conservation necessarily involves stakeholder analysis. This article focuses on Q-methodology for this analysis. The objective is to understand both  the  identities and desires of local stakeholders in their own terms and categories, instead of making assumptions about their problems and needs. The study revealed 4 discourses on the future development of the Ria Formosa: Environmental education and information exchange; economic development supported and taking advantages of the environmental values; land planning and decrease of bureaucracy; and environmental quality, integration and organization. Finally, these discourses are compared with the Ria Formosa action plan - POLIS 2008 - that includes investment to improve and develop this coastal system. In conclusion, the action planned in POLIS 2008 covers most of the concerns that stakeholders identified. The major conflict area identified is related to the demolition of houses existing on the barrier island of the lagoon system.