Climate Change and the Mediterranean Southern Coasts

Abstract

This chapter deals with climate change effects in the Mediterranean littoral of Morocco, which is one of the most vulnerable countries within the Mediterranean region, especially the low-lying areas located in the eastern, i.e., Nador and Saidia areas, and western parts, i.e., Tangier and Tetouan areas. The different aspects of climatic change characteristics and impacts are also analysed, including: sea level rise (SLR) trend in the Mediterranean littoral of Morocco; coastal erosion and flooding hazards; water management problems; and agricultural and tourist activities. It is established that appropriate vulnerability assessment and adaptation strategies to SLR and climate change are required at regional and national scale in Morocco, to improve the tools for correct coastal zone management.