Coastal erosion along the Caribbean coast of Colombia: Magnitudes, causes and management

Sun, Sea and Sand tourism is one of the fastest increasing activities in Colombia. The coast, specifically the Caribbean coast, represents the favourite destination for national and foreign visitors. However, over the last 30 years while tourism activities increased, coastal erosion became a serious problem rising in magnitude and dominance. This paper deals with a historic overview of Colombian Caribbean coastal erosion, the calculus of associated magnitudes and deepens knowledge and understanding of the different factors that control this process in this location. Coastal change in terms of erosion-sedimentation was determined by comparatives analysis of satellite images for the 1980-2014 period, as well as field surveys. Results showed circa 50% of the Colombian Caribbean coast is undergoing serious erosion. In detail, 48.3% (1182 km) of the investigated coast is experiencing erosion; 33.2% (812.6 km) can be considered stable, and 18.4% (450.5 km) is accreting. Coastal erosion can be associated with a diversity of factors contrasting in their degree of magnitude and influence, such as, amongst others: sedimentary imbalance, extreme waves, ecosystem destruction and sea level rise. These processes are often multiplied by human activities e.g. inappropriate building of coastal infrastructures, e.g. groins, illegal mining of sand and destruction of mangroves. Currently, coastal erosion produces not only beach loss but also deterioration of scenic quality and further significant financial investments for hard shore protection structures (groins and breakwaters, principally). Therefore, coastal erosion has become an obstacle that hinders the economic growth of Colombia. Results obtained can be used in the correct application of coastal management policies in order to preserve socio-economic activities, such tourism. Specifically, stronger management laws in line with Marine Spatial Planning attributes need to be implemented and enforced; more sustainable funding found for legislation and a better support network for decision making with the over riding objective of increased sustainability. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.