Coastal vulnerability analysis and mapping of Southwestern Black Sea A study which carried out along a densely populated coastal zone around Istanbul in Turkey Exclusively obtained parameters: beach characteristics and shoreline change along the coast Southwestern Black Sea coast is a unique environment consisting of different types of geomorphological characteristics such as cliffs, river mouths, sandy and gravel beaches. The study area covers coastal zones of densely populated city (Istanbul), a considerably high-discharge river mouth (Sakarya River), numerous sandy beaches (e.g. Terkos, Riva, Agva, Sile), and floodplain forests (Igneada and Karasu). In this study, the characteristics of this coast defined and categorized with the properties determined as geomorphology, coastal slope, shoreline change, wave height, mean beach width, sea level rise, population density and land use. These characteristics used to compute a coastal vulnerability index. Figure A. Vulnerability assessment process of Southwestern Black Sea Purpose: Variation in storminess and sea level rise induced by climate change are affecting coastal areas directly. In this study, coastal vulnerability of Southwestern Black Sea coastline is investigated. Theory and Methods: Physical and social properties of the area have been revealed. Variables effecting the vulnerability determined as geomorphology, coastal slope, shoreline change, wave height, mean beach width, sea level rise, population density and land use. Data about physical and social condition of Southwestern Black Sea has been collected for the purpose of implementing an index-based vulnerability assessment. Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI) which is widely used in previous studies is chosen to conduct analysis. Each parameter classified into 5 classes (form least vulnerable-1 to highly vulnerable-5). Every segment of the coast assigned to a class with regard to each parameter; afterwards an index which representing the vulnerability for each of the 362 predefined coastline sector is calculated to combine the impact of all variables. Results: A vulnerability map is acquired for Southwestern Black Sea as the result of the analysis. Results revealed that highly vulnerable areas are Kiyikoy, Yalikoy, Karaburun, Kilyos, Riva, Sahilkoy, Sile, Agva and Kefken. The least vulnerable areas are located on the coasts extending between Eregli and Zonguldak. Conclusion: Southwestern Black Sea is a climate change sensitive location mainly because of its natural geomorphological condition. Results of this study are expected to be useful for the coastal managers and planners which are aiming at the sustainable use coastal areas inside the study area.
