Author(s)

V. Liguori, G. Anfuso, J. A. Martínez & J. Benavente

Abstract

A geomorphologic approach, combined with GIS tools, was used to investigate a 26 Km long coastal sector in South Sicily, Italy, affected by important erosive processes. The applied methodology allowed for a database to be obtained involving all coastal characteristics, providing helpful information on coastal processes and general sediment circulation patterns. Coastal erosion, mainly linked to the construction of a port, was locally contrasted by the construction of hard structures, especially rip-rap revetments and breakwaters, generating environmental stress in the downdrift area. Nowadays a nourishment project has been planned to solve existing erosive problems, but there is still the lack of a general erosion management plan that should be principally based on the installation of a by-passing system. Keywords: erosion, port, Pozzallo, Sicily. 1 Introduction Coastal retreat is the landward displacement of shoreline because of marine erosion or flooding [1]. Usually, it is contrasted by protection works constructed on very specific sites, to solve concrete and urgent problems. Most of them constitute a temporary remedial without a general erosion management

Keywords

erosion, port, Pozzallo, Sicily.