Topic COASTAL

The term ‘coast’ refers to the transition zone between continent and open sea. The coast includes water sheds, estuaries and marine inlets, as well as tidal areas and coastal plains. Geologically, coastal regions represent only a brief snapshot, because ocean currents and tides, together with powerful surf, are continually eroding coastlines, and consequently changing their course. In addition, coasts are being shaped by eustatic sea level changes going back to glacial climate change and rising atmospheric temperatures. Furthermore, vertical movements of land masses, triggered by isostatic and tectonic processes, play an important role. Human activities, such as harbours, settlements, transport of goods and economic use, are also among the factors influencing coastal areas.

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