Morphodynamics analysis of the Natural Monument of the cliffs of Morro Branco-Ceará-Brazil

Abstract

Coastal environments are intensely vulnerable, and in the case of the Falésias de Morro Branco, municipality of Beberibe-CE, the disorderly occupation contributes to the realization of risks to the local population, and to the Natural Monument of Morro Branco. The present work aims to analyze the evolution of the morphodynamics of the Natural Monument of the Cliffs of Morro Branco, and to question the use of the land, the elements of interaction of the environment, the risks and the perception of the main agents in the area (Bugueiros and tourism agents). The research used as a basis the first three sub-steps of the ICZM methodology: characterization of the area, definition of management units and data ordering. The morphodynamic analysis was carried out through the use of drone images and photographs during field visits, in addition to the collection of tidal and rainfall data. To analyze the environmental perception, a survey was carried out with buggy drivers and tourism agents, totaling approximately 80 samples. results indicate: rainfall and human occupation as important agents in modifying the geomorphological landscape. Perception data indicates that the main perceived risk comes from mass movement and undermining of occupied slopes, which refers to the need for integrated cost management practices that favor sustainability.