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Unlock This CourseGeographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionised how we study and understand coastal environments. These powerful computer-based tools allow geographers to collect, store, analyse and display spatial data about coastlines in ways that were impossible just decades ago. From tracking beach erosion to planning coastal defences, GIS mapping has become essential for managing our dynamic coastal zones.
Key Definitions:
GIS combines different types of geographical data in layers, like transparent sheets stacked on top of each other. Each layer contains specific information - one might show the coastline, another shows wave heights and another shows human settlements. By combining these layers, geographers can analyse complex coastal relationships and patterns.
Modern coastal GIS relies on various data collection techniques that provide accurate, up-to-date information about coastal environments. These methods range from traditional surveying to cutting-edge satellite technology.
Satellites and aircraft equipped with special sensors can capture detailed images and measurements of coastal areas. This technology is particularly valuable because it can cover large areas quickly and safely, even in dangerous coastal conditions.
High-resolution images from space showing coastal features, vegetation and human development. Updated regularly to track changes over time.
Detailed photographs taken from aircraft, providing close-up views of specific coastal sections with very high accuracy.
Laser technology that measures exact heights and distances, creating precise 3D models of coastal topography.
The Holderness Coast experiences Europe's fastest coastal erosion, losing 2 metres per year on average. GIS mapping using satellite data from 1951 to present shows that entire villages like Ravenser Odd have disappeared completely. The Environment Agency uses GIS to track erosion rates, predict future coastline positions and plan coastal defences. Interactive maps help local communities understand risks and evacuation routes.
GIS technology serves multiple practical purposes in understanding and managing coastal environments. From predicting flood risks to planning new developments, these systems provide crucial information for decision-makers.
One of the most important uses of coastal GIS is tracking how coastlines change over time. By comparing satellite images and survey data from different years, geographers can measure exactly how much land has been lost or gained.
GIS can measure erosion rates down to centimetres per year. This helps predict which areas are most at risk and where coastal defences might be needed. The system can also model different scenarios, showing how erosion might change under different weather conditions.
Coastal flooding poses serious risks to communities and infrastructure. GIS helps create detailed flood risk maps by combining data about sea levels, storm surge heights, coastal defences and land elevation.
Predicts how high water levels could rise during severe storms, identifying vulnerable low-lying areas.
Maps show which roads, buildings and utilities are most likely to be affected by coastal flooding.
Helps emergency services plan escape routes and identify safe areas for coastal communities.
GIS plays a crucial role in designing and positioning coastal defences like sea walls, groynes and beach nourishment projects. Engineers use GIS data to understand wave patterns, sediment movement and coastal processes before building expensive defence systems.
London's Thames Barrier protects the capital from storm surges, but rising sea levels mean new defences are needed. The Thames Estuary 2100 project uses advanced GIS modelling to plan flood defences until 2100. The system combines climate change predictions, population growth data and economic information to design flexible barriers that can be raised as sea levels rise. GIS maps show exactly where new defences should be built and how they'll protect different areas of London.
Understanding GIS maps requires knowledge of symbols, colours and scales used to represent coastal features. These maps often use different colours to show water depth, land height, vegetation types and human development.
Coastal GIS maps use standardised symbols and colour schemes to represent different features. Blue typically represents water (with darker blues showing deeper water), green shows vegetation and brown or orange indicates different land elevations.
Elevation maps use colour gradients where blue/green represents low areas near sea level, yellow/orange shows moderate heights and red/brown indicates high ground. This helps identify areas most vulnerable to flooding or erosion.
While GIS provides powerful tools for coastal management, it's important to understand both its strengths and weaknesses when interpreting coastal data.
Can analyse vast coastal areas quickly, processing years of data in minutes rather than months of manual work.
Satellite and GPS technology provides measurements accurate to within centimetres, far more precise than traditional surveying.
Can model future scenarios, helping planners prepare for climate change and extreme weather events.
Despite its power, GIS technology faces several limitations that users must consider when making decisions based on coastal mapping data.
High-quality GIS systems require expensive equipment, software and trained specialists. Satellite data can be costly and systems need regular updates to remain accurate. Smaller coastal communities may struggle to afford comprehensive GIS mapping.
New technologies are making coastal GIS even more powerful. Drones can now collect detailed data from dangerous coastal areas, while artificial intelligence helps analyse patterns in coastal change. Real-time monitoring systems provide instant updates about coastal conditions and virtual reality allows people to experience predicted future coastlines. These advances will help coastal communities better prepare for the challenges of climate change and rising sea levels.