ISSN: 2167-0269
+44 1300 500008
Department of Marine Sciences, University of The Aegean, Mytilene, Greece
Research Article
Beach Carrying Capacity at Touristic 3S Destinations: Its Significance, Projected Decreases and Adaptation Options under Climate Change
Author(s): Isavela N. Monioudi* and Adonis F. Velegrakis
The objective of this short contribution is to discuss a most significant emerging challenge for the 3S tourism: The
reduction of the beach carrying capacity for recreation due to the erosion brought by climate change. Projections
on the potential carrying capacity reductions of two major touristic island 3S destinations in the Mediterranean
(Santorini, Greece) and the Caribbean (Saint Lucia) are presented. The results show severe impacts on the carrying
capacity of all beaches in these islands. By 2050 and under the moderate RCP 4.5 scenario, up to 50% of the
Santorini beaches will permanently retreat by 50% of their current recorded maximum width due to the relative
sea level rise, whereas under the 100-year extreme storm conditions at least 67% of all beaches will be completely
(at least temporarily) inundated, exposing backshore assets to flooding. Under the s.. View More»
DOI:
10.35248/2167-0269.22.11.500