Beach Conditions for Guiding the Sandy Beach Management in Phuket, Thailand

Abstract

Thailand’s current beach management strategies lack integration across sectors, resulting in conflicts of interest and insufficient consideration of diverse beach uses. The complexity of environmental, socio-economic, and coastal disasters challenge policymakers to describe the conditions of sandy beaches, and the most effective coastal management adaptation measures. This study suggests an integrated approach to evaluate beach conditions by incorporating the Urbanization Index, Conservation Index, and Recreation Index. Furthermore, the assessment of beach conditions will include the Threat Index, which consists of erosion rates and shoreline recession caused by sea level rise. The trends index will prioritize beach conditions for appropriate management actions. The study suggests management strategies that aim to preserve the physical and environmental aspects of the beach, while restoring its functionality for ecosystem services by applying engineering structures with beach nourishment. The main purpose of this study is to develop a beach condition that can be used as a guideline for sandy beach management in Thailand. It provides insights and recommendations to policymakers for enhancing the sustainability and resilience of Thailand’s coastal areas in the face of urbanization and climate change.