Coastal erosion poses a significant threat to the stability and sustainability of coastal regions worldwide. In response to this pressing challenge, the Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources and Development (RCMRD) has partnered with Locate IT, a private sector, to develop environmental monitoring tools for coastal erosion mapping in the Indian Ocean countries. Through the GMES & Africa project, these efforts are aligned with the broader mission of fostering sustainable development through informed decision-making.
As part of this initiative, a three-day online training session was organised on Coastal Geomorphology Mapping and Shoreline Change Analysis to empower stakeholders and end-users with the skills needed to effectively utilize these tools. This training, conducted by RCMRD in collaboration with LocateIT Limited, focused on building capacity in coastal erosion monitoring and mitigation. It aimed to build capacity for the uptake, use, and development of Earth Observation application products for coastal erosion monitoring in the IOC countries.
Introducing participants to environmental monitoring tools for coastal erosion Environmental Monitoring Tools for Coastal Erosion Mapping Environmental monitoring tools played a pivotal role in comprehending and addressing the challenges posed by coastal erosion, a dynamic phenomenon affecting the Earth's coastal regions. Coastal geomorphological mapping, a study of the physical features and their evolution, provided valuable insights into these intricate ecosystems. Earth observation, utilising remote sensing technologies, has gained prominence for coastal geomorphological mapping, offering a comprehensive understanding of the coastal landscape's dynamics.
Time-series shoreline change analysis, facilitated by remote sensing technologies, adds another layer of significance. This method allows for continuous monitoring of coastline alterations. Over time, providing critical data for the development of strategies to manage and conserve coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, it aids in predicting the potential impacts of climate change.
In the Indian Ocean countries (Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius, and Seychelles), advanced environmental monitoring tools have been developed as part of the GMES and Africa Programme. These tools include a geoportal http://coastalerosion.rcmrd.org/, providing a centralised platform for accessing a range of geospatial information, along with geomorphology maps and shoreline products detailing accretion and erosion patterns. Additionally, a QGIS plugin has been designed for efficient shoreline extraction within open-source software, and Mapographics is a comprehensive compilation of maps and statistical data aimed at at facilitating decision-making processes. These tools collectively empower stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding coastal management, aligning with the broader objectives of sustainable development in the region.
In addition to these advanced environmental monitoring tools, a self-paced online course has been disseminated through RCMRD eLearning Platform as part of the initiative. While providing comprehensive understanding of coastal dynamics and erosion patterns, this course focuses on coastal geomorphology mapping and shoreline change analysis, providing trainees with essential knowledge, tools, and skills to perform coastal erosion monitoring effectively
For more information about the GMES & Africa project and upcoming training initiatives, please visit RCMRD's website. https://gmes.rcmrd.org/
Author: Gladys Mwangi
