Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Climate change is a pressing global issue that has significant implications on coastal erosion, posing threats to coastal communities and ecosystems. This study focuses on analyzing the impact of climate change on coastal erosion in a specific region, with the aim of understanding the complex interactions between climate change and coastal processes. The specific region chosen for this study is the Gulf Coast of the United States, a region highly vulnerable to coastal erosion due to its low-lying topography and exposure to extreme weather events. The research begins with a comprehensive review of existing literature on climate change, coastal erosion, and their interrelationships. The literature review highlights the current understanding of how climate change influences sea-level rise, storm surges, and other factors that contribute to coastal erosion. It also examines various adaptation and mitigation strategies that have been proposed to address coastal erosion in the face of climate change. The methodology section outlines the research design and data collection methods employed in this study. A combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches is used to analyze historical data on coastal erosion rates, sea-level rise projections, and climate trends in the Gulf Coast region. Remote sensing techniques and GIS tools are utilized to map coastal changes over time and assess the vulnerability of coastal areas to erosion. The findings of the study reveal a clear correlation between climate change and coastal erosion in the Gulf Coast region. Sea-level rise and increasing frequency of extreme weather events have accelerated coastal erosion rates, leading to the loss of valuable coastal land and habitats. The analysis also identifies hotspots of erosion and areas at high risk of future erosion based on current trends and projections. The discussion section critically evaluates the implications of the findings for coastal management and policy. It highlights the importance of incorporating climate change considerations into coastal planning and implementing adaptive measures to reduce vulnerability to erosion. The role of stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and scientists, in addressing coastal erosion in the context of climate change is also discussed. In conclusion, this study underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to address the impact of climate change on coastal erosion in the Gulf Coast region. By integrating scientific knowledge with local expertise and community engagement, sustainable solutions can be developed to mitigate the effects of climate change and preserve coastal environments for future generations. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on climate change adaptation and coastal resilience, providing valuable insights for policymakers, planners, and researchers working in the field of coastal management.

Thesis Overview