Citizens’ Perspective on Coastal Erosion in Greece

Abstract

Coastal erosion is a major coastal hazard in Greece. This work aimed to assess the perceptions of citizens about coastal erosion. We developed a questionnaire containing 25 questions that was distributed online and filled out by 1636 respondents. A surprising find was that 33% of the respondents were not aware of the phenomenon of coastal erosion. On the other hand, among those respondents who are aware of coastal erosion, there is a basic understanding of the major factors promoting erosion and its impacts. Responses also highlighted a lack of information and awareness from the media and public authorities, while the vast majority considered that protecting the coast from erosion should be important or a priority. Our findings stress the need for awareness-raising activities about this important natural hazard.

Keywords

• coastal hazards
• questionnaire
• geographic information systems
• society
• Mediterranean
• public opinion