New interactive map uncovers Europe’s coastal strengths and weaknesses

The Geological Survey of the Netherlands (part of TNO), together with Edge Hill University and international partners, has unveiled an innovative online geological map that sheds new light on Europe's coastlines. Created under the European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet), the Coastal Resilience and Vulnerability map offers a unique, interactive look at how coastal areas across Europe stand up to changing conditions – and where they remain most fragile. Drawing on insights from more than 900 scientific studies, this is the first time such an extensive dataset has been brought together in a single, accessible tool designed to support research, policy and public awareness.

Around 40% of the global population lives within 100km of the coast. These areas are increasingly under pressure from climate change, extreme weather events and human activity. The new map provides valuable insight into the structure and shape of coastlines, erosion patterns, sediment supply and flood risks.

Categorized coastal areas

The map categorizes coastal areas into low, medium and high levels of vulnerability to erosion and flooding. Areas with high vulnerability are shown in dark blue, while low vulnerability areas appear in light blue. The coastlines of the Mediterranean and Baltic Seas appear more vulnerable than those of the Atlantic Ocean, North Sea and Black Sea.

Coastal resilience refers to a coastline’s ability to absorb and recover from erosion or flooding before reaching a critical tipping point that may require intervention. It is influenced by factors such as the strength of coastal materials and the shape of the shoreline. Coastal vulnerability measures how sensitive a coastal system is to change. The greater the resilience, the lower the vulnerability.

Vulnerability is shaped by geological and geomorphological conditions, as well as marine, ecological and socio-economic factors. Understanding both resilience and vulnerability is essential for developing effective climate adaptation strategies and ensuring sustainable coastal management.

GIS-based dataset

“This new geological map from EMODnet is the first time such a large dataset on coastal resilience and vulnerability has been brought together and visualized in an accessible format,” commented Ad van der Spek, senior marine geologist at TNO Geological Survey of the Netherlands. “As a complement to existing EMODnet maps on coastal migration and type, it brings together diverse data sources and makes them available for coastal planning, policy development and management,” he added.

The data, gathered through a collaborative European effort involving all EMODnet Geology partners, has been integrated into a GIS-based coastal dataset and classified into three levels of resilience and vulnerability. Produced by Edge Hill University in the UK and refined by TNO in the Netherlands, the GIS file allows users to explore and interpret coastal data at various zoom levels and spatial scales.