Coastal vulnerability assessment with a hierarchical coastal segments approach

Abstract

Coastal vulnerability assessment is crucial for the effective planning and management of coastal zones, particularly in the face of climate change and increasing coastal hazards. Currently, there is no universal method to accurately assess coastal vulnerability. Therefore, many coastal vulnerability assessments are based on the combined use of physical and social data, simple models, and expert judgment. In this study, the coastal vulnerability index was evaluated using 13 variables related to the physical and social aspects of Campeche state coastline. In addition to an intervention index was identified based on the physical characteristics of the study area. Finally, using the information from the vulnerability index and the action index, areas were defined as hierarchical coastal segments and classified as low, medium, or high priority depending on the economic activities, population, and natural environments present in the area. The results show the distribution of vulnerability along the coast of Campeche: 24% have low vulnerability, 41% have moderate vulnerability, and 35% have high vulnerability. These highly vulnerable areas are in the south, near Laguna de Terminos, the most important coastal lagoon in Mexico, because of its socioeconomic and environmental relevance. The hierarchical coastal segments allow decisions to be made regarding actions that integrate natural and anthropic elements in a more regional and not only local way. The results are useful for medium and long-term planning and management of coastal zones since they allow the identification of vulnerable areas that require a comprehensive solution to the coastal risks to which they are subject. The applied method has the advantages of being replicable and generating a solid base of applicable knowledge owing to the participation of local and foreign experts.