A 20-year review of the coastal scenery evaluation system

• Published in: Ocean & coastal management 2024-11, Vol.257, p.107341, Article 107341
• Main Authors: Rangel-Buitrago, Nelson, Ben-Haddad, Mohamed
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Coastal conservation; Coastal management; Environmental sustainability; Fuzzy logic; Scenic quality assessment
• ISSN: 0964-5691
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2024.107341

The Coastal Scenic Evaluation System (CSES), introduced by Ergin et al., in 2004, employs a methodological approach using fuzzy logic for the quantitative assessment of coastal scenic quality. The CSES evaluates 18 physical and 8 human parameters, enabling the calculation of a scenic evaluation index (D value), which classifies coastal sites into five classes. Class I comprises natural areas with top scenic characteristics, whereas Class V includes poorly scenic natural areas heavily impacted by human activities. This paper reviews the development, application, and impacts of the CSES over the past two decades, emphasizing its crucial role in coastal management. By integrating both physical and human parameters, the CSES provides a comprehensive tool that aids in identifying high-value scenic areas needing protection and areas where visual quality can be enhanced. As the system marks its 20th anniversary, this review not only highlights its past achievements but also discusses its potential to address contemporary and future coastal challenges. This evaluation is especially relevant as coastal regions continue to endure significant pressures from environmental changes, urbanization, and increased human activity, confirming that the CSES is an essential tool for sustainable coastal development and management. [Display omitted] •Development, application, and impact of the CSES over the past 20 years.•Scenic evaluation assesses values from a checklist of 18 physical and 8 human parameters.•Scenic assessment of 1695 coastal sites around the world.•1075 (63.5%) of surveyed coastal sites are not in optimal or acceptable scenery conditions.•Significant influence of human-induced processes/activities over the current coastal scenery degradation.