A harmonized framework to assess coastal erosion blending copernicus marine data products and satellite imagery along Greek and Italian shorelines

This study examines and assesses the shoreline evolution along study sites (Iera Poli of Messolonghi, Greece, and Ugento Municipality, Italy) by analyzing historical satellite images, covering the area during the latest decade (2009–2019). The study focuses on eight geographical sub-areas. Coastal zones face intensified natural and anthropogenic disturbances, including rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and over-exploitation of resources. Coastal zone monitoring of these effects involves satellite-borne shoreline extraction and detection of change rates over time. Shoreline evolution is directly related to waves, tides, winds, storms, extreme events, sea level change, and human activities affecting the geomorphologic processes of the coast.

The areas were selected based on their high economic and aesthetic values and the potential vulnerability to coastal erosion and climate change impact, as identified by previous studies. The outcome of this analysis offers a useful decision support tool for screening and designing multi-layered adaptation strategies that integrate environmental conservation, coastal protection, and socioeconomic sustainability to enhance long-term coastal resilience.