Community participation and traditional ecological knowledge are fundamental pillars for the successful establishment, management, and sustainability of coastal bioshields. This chapter explores the social and cultural dimensions of coastal protection by examining how local knowledge systems, customary practices, and participatory governance contribute to effective bioshield management. Drawing upon examples from Asia, Africa, and the Pacific, it highlights the role of indigenous and local communities in conserving mangroves, dune vegetation, and other coastal ecosystems through time-tested practices such as community forestry, rotational harvesting, and sacred site protection. The chapter analyzes participatory models that integrate traditional wisdom with modern ecological and engineering approaches, demonstrating how co-management frameworks enhance local ownership and long-term stewardship. It further addresses the challenges of balancing scientific knowledge with cultural values, particularly in contexts of rapid social and environmental change. Attention is given to gender inclusion, capacity building, and social equity as essential components of participatory bioshield governance. By emphasizing the complementarity between community-led initiatives and state or donor-supported programs, the chapter illustrates that sustainable coastal protection is most effective when rooted in local empowerment and social cohesion. Ultimately, it argues that recognizing and institutionalizing traditional knowledge within formal coastal management strategies not only strengthens ecological resilience but also reinforces the cultural integrity and adaptive capacity of coastal societies.