Boston — Gov. Charlie Baker has formed a seven-member panel to advocate for the 78 cities and towns along the Massachusetts coastline.

The Seaport Economic Council will be chaired by Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, who says the maritime economy remains a vital part of the state with "untapped potential for growth."

Baker issued an executive order Monday citing marine science, tourism, clean energy and the seafood industry as major elements of the coastal economy.

He also said the communities must be made more resilient to the threats posed by rising sea levels and extreme weather events.

Among those joining Polito on the council is Carolyn Kirk, the former mayor of Gloucester and now the deputy state secretary for housing and economic development, and the current mayors of Quincy, Salem and Gloucester.