Assessing the current state of coastal dune environments

Abstract

This study will set out to analyse the current state of the coastal sand dune systems that are still present on the Maltese Islands. The study will set out to present a set of topographic maps, depicting the extent and the topography of the local coastal dune assemblages. Using work carried out by Cassar (1996) and Cassar & Stevens (2002) as a baseline, this study aims to portray the differences in dune extent and diversity that have occurred in the last decades, using more accurate and reliable techniques and instruments. The study will also present ways or strategies that can be put forward where applicable, in order The general trend that was observed by the data collected during this study portrays a general state of degradation along the entire set of coastal dune systems present on the island, with the exception of the sand dune system present in Ramla l-Ħamra, Gozo. A combination of anthropogenic and natural causes of degradation have caused the vast majority of the dune assemblages to decline in size and diversity, causing a considerable loss of species and habitats. The conclusions that are derived from this study show that the current state of the local dune systems is far from being un-manageable. Sites harbouring coastal sand dunes have the potential to regenerate to previous states prior to the degradation that has plagued the Maltese coastline throughout the last decades. This can be achieved through the integrated management of human activities in relation to the coast, and by affording the much-needed protection to these last remaining delicate ecosystems in the Maltese archipelago.