Coastal Sensitivity/Vulnerability Characterization and Adaptation Strategies: A Review

Coastal area constitutes a vulnerable environment and requires special attention to preserve ecosystems and human activities therein. To this aim, many studies have been devoted both in past and recent years to analyzing the main factors affecting coastal vulnerability and susceptibility. Among the most used approaches, the Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI) accounts for all relevant variables that characterize the coastal environment dealing with: (i) forcing actions (waves, tidal range, sea-level rise, etc.), (ii) morphological characteristics (geomorphology, foreshore slope, dune features, etc.), (iii) socio-economic, ecological and cultural aspects (tourism activities, natural habitats, etc.). Each variable is evaluated at each portion of the investigated coast, and associated with a vulnerability level which usually ranges from 1 (very low vulnerability), to 5 (very high vulnerability). Following a susceptibility/vulnerability analysis of a coastal stretch, specific strategies must be chosen and implemented to favor coastal resilience and adaptation, spanning from hard solutions (e.g., groins, breakwaters, etc.) to soft solutions (e.g., beach and dune nourishment projects), to the relocation option and the establishment of accommodation strategies (e.g., emergency preparedness).

Automated summary

Coastal areas are vulnerable environments that require special attention to preserve ecosystems and human activities. The Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI) is a commonly used approach that considers various factors affecting coastal vulnerability and susceptibility, leading to the implementation of specific strategies to enhance coastal resilience. Solutions range from hard infrastructure (e.g., groins, breakwaters) to soft interventions (e.g., beach nourishment) to better prepare coastal areas for potential risks.