Coastal vulnerability index development: a review

Abstract

Coastal vulnerability Index (CVI), is one of the predictive approaches to coastal classification by incorporating various coastal variables. This approach is favoured in the coastal investigation as it simplifies a number of complex parameters. However, it comes greatly as to why such assessment is developed in the first place; a) to facilitate coastal management in recent coastal condition, b) to classify potential shoreline responses to future sea-level rise, and c) for management of data storage. Index development in coastal investigation is one of the present-day technique used to estimate the vulnerability of the coast and is affected by a diverse range of variables. The widespread use of contemporary technology nowadays has led to a favourable coastal component to be considered in determining coastal vulnerability and environmental risk analysis. Therefore, it must be guided by acknowledging appropriate data to be used at spatial scale of interest, the geomorphology of the area concerns and etc. USA and European countries like Northern Ireland are one of the forefront country in addressing the significance of CVI in protecting coastal area. A stepwise approach to development of CVI is discussed in detail in this paper. Besides, the potential of including coastal components based on special characteristic at particular coasts for coastal vulnerability analysis are also reviewed. CVI eventually will assist coastal communities in providing guidance for mitigation of coastal threats in future urban development.