Integrated coastal vulnerability assessment: A methodology for coastal cities management integrating socioeconomic, physical and environmental dimensions - Case study of Região dos Lagos, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract

Coastal zones can be considered inherently vulnerable because of sensitive ecosystems, geomorphological dynamics and complexity, and the clustering of many social, economic, and sometimes conflicting activities. In urban areas where tourism is highly treasured, this vulnerability is even worse. Intense demographic pressure may overload the carrying capacity limits of the sensitive coastal ecosystems. This process also exposes the population living in risky areas to physical vulnerability. This paper aims to present a methodology to integrate the physical, socioeconomic and ecosystem dimensions of coastal vulnerability through a useful tool for coastal zone management. It is propose a matrix that allows correlating the exposition degree and adaptive capacity of vulnerability. Based on this matrix it is possible to plot the integrated coastal vulnerability into a diagram of integrated coastal vulnerability assessment (DICVA). The case study of Região dos Lagos presented in this paper uses this integrated approach of coastal vulnerability. Between 2000 and 2010, the urban population grew significantly on the coast subject to erosion and tidal flood, as well as in flood-prone areas around the lagoons. In many cities, a massive influx of tourists surpasses the number of urban residents causing a deficiency in the water and sewage utilities systems. A resulting problem is the risk of groundwater contamination and lagoons pollution. These impacts can backfire and negatively impact the tourism industry as the environmental quality declines and the risk sensation increases. The proposed, integrated, and updated approach to coastal vulnerability may help to understand the complex effects of the relationship found in the different dimensions involved. Furthermore, this approach contributes to the effective use of the matrix and Diagram of Integrated Coastal Vulnerability Assessment, and may guide coastal management actions.