In the sun-drenched landscapes of Croatia, where tourism is the lifeblood of the economy, the battle against climate change is being waged on the shores of the Adriatic. The country’s beaches, a magnet for tourists and a vital economic asset, are under siege from erosion and rising sea levels. A recent study, led by Tonko Bogovac, sheds light on the urgent need for data-driven beach management strategies, revealing both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Croatia’s eastern Adriatic coast is home to over 1,904 small gravel beaches, each a critical component of the nation’s tourism industry. These beaches, however, are under constant threat from climate change, which is exacerbating erosion and altering coastal dynamics. The study, published in Građevinar, the Croatian Construction Industry Journal, highlights the lack of comprehensive data and a national strategy for coastal management, leaving local municipalities to grapple with the issue on their own.
Bogovac’s research, which involved surveying local municipalities and analyzing aerial photogrammetry data, uncovered startling figures. More than 27% of Croatia’s existing beach area has been constructed, primarily to meet the needs of tourism, marine activities, and coastal infrastructure. This construction, while necessary for economic development, poses significant challenges for beach management and sustainability.
“Beach nourishment is a critical tool in our arsenal against erosion,” Bogovac explains. “However, the data we have is fragmented and incomplete. Without a national strategy and comprehensive data, we’re fighting a losing battle.”
The study underscores the need for a coordinated approach to beach management, one that balances the economic benefits of tourism with the environmental imperatives of sustainability. For the energy sector, this research has significant implications. As coastal infrastructure expands, so too does the demand for energy. The construction of new beaches and the maintenance of existing ones require substantial resources, including energy. By adopting a data-driven, strategic approach to beach management, Croatia can not only protect its beaches but also optimize energy use and reduce environmental impact.
The findings of Bogovac’s study serve as a clarion call for action. As climate change continues to reshape the Adriatic coast, the need for a national strategy for coastal management has never been more urgent. By embracing data-driven decision-making and fostering collaboration between local municipalities, Croatia can safeguard its beaches for future generations while ensuring the sustainability of its tourism industry and energy sector.
The research, published in Građevinar, which translates to “The Builder,” offers a roadmap for future developments in the field. It underscores the importance of data collection, strategic planning, and collaborative efforts in managing coastal resources. As Croatia navigates the challenges of climate change, the lessons learned from this study will be invaluable in shaping a sustainable future for its beaches and the communities that depend on them.