Environmental and geomorphic aspects of urban beaches of Naples, southern Italy

Abstract

Integrated morphometric, granulometric, and morphoscopic analyses and environmental surveys of six beaches selected from thirty, with different characteristics and lengths ranging from a few to several tens of meters, were carried out since
2019. These sensitive transition environments between sea and land undergo bureaucratic and operational management in mutual transition between many institutions, from central to local, which often results in delayed interventions. The
comparison and interpretation of the data and results allowed to outline the main morphosedimentary and geomorphological characters of these beaches, to obtain a modern morphotypological classification including biotic and anthropogenic elements. These urban beaches can be equated in physiography and sedimentological features to pocket beaches or intermediate types between those and predominantly sandy tombolo, salient and beaches at the cliff foot. Since pocket beaches are the favorite of bathers for their beauty due to highmorphological waterscape variability, they are subject to intense anthropogenic pressure. Current erosion in these artificial environments is less intense than occurring on large natural littorals of alluvial or minor coastal plains but is relevant concerning the limited width and massive seasonal tourist pressure. Urban beaches register a high-risk factor when tourist settlements occupy the backshore. They constitute a natural buffer against undermining the behind cliff foot by storm waves. Consequently, the cliff is sheltered and becomes inactive. Sea waves could trigger cliff collapses or seriously damage urban structures on them. Considering the importance that urban beaches have both for a tourist-recreational issue and the safeguard of the cliff and buildings, it is necessary to protect them. Appropriate policies include proper management and targeted removal of the clay material, macroplastics, microplastics, and microfibers massed by waves, sea currents, and wind, as well as from incorrect behavior by users.