A diachronic study of the Mediterranean coastline: A geometric approach

Abstract

Coastal areas represent one of the country's most important environmental and economic resources. They are naturally dynamic, with changes that can occur on a human time scale and that need to be quantified for the proper management of shorelines and, in particular, the beaches on which the local economy is largely based. This work focuses on the diachronic study of the coastline of the Mediterranean coast, particularly the coastal fringe at the mouth of the Wadi Aliane. In order to assess and remedy the risks of erosion and accretion of the coastline, the methodology followed consists of the application of automatic analytical techniques using multi-temporal photo-interpretation, a Geographic Information System (GIS) and a Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS). The rate of change will be calculated from the multi-date maps, (1981- 1997 and 2016) using the End Point Rate (EPR) index. Comparison of the results of the interpretation of aerial photos and satellite images of the Oued Aliane coastline used (1981, 1997, and 2016) provided information that allowed us to understand the evolutionary behaviour of the wet sand/dry sand line over 36 years. This numerical analysis of the 1981 -1997 and 2016 coastlines in the coastal sector of Oued Aliane, shows us that zones A, C and D are mainly affected by erosion, while the mouth part is affected by accretion because it is considered a delta and therefore a sedimentation area.

Contribution of remote sensing and GIS in the study of the evolution of Anza beach in Agadir (Morocco)

“…This integration makes it simpler to monitor changes to the shoreline and in order to thoroughly analyze the beach morphology at Anza, we also collected topographic and bathymetric data for our study on beach morphology. The information gleaned from this study will direct future conservation efforts and is expected to significantly advance our comprehension of coastal dynamics [1,2].…”

“…This study's main goal is to offer in-depth information regarding the coastal evolution of Anza beach. The purpose of the study is to improve knowledge of the anthropogenic and natural processes that affect this particular shoreline [1]. The findings are projected to greatly advance the sciences of geology, hydrology, and climatology and serve as a solid platform for the sustainable management of coastal resources [1,2].…”

“…Understanding the complex processes regulating coastal evolution in this area is essential for developing customized preservation strategies, which are essential for both the preservation of the environment and the support of coastal tourism-related economic activities [1].…”