Vulnerability of the Upper Coast of the Gulf of Thailand

Abstract

Mangrove forests are vital ecosystems as they serve as a vital link between terrestrial and marine environments. They act as natural barriers against winds, waves, and erosion, protecting coastlines. Therefore, this study focuses on the extensive mangrove forest as one of the factors in assessing the coastal vulnerability index in the upper Gulf of Thailand. Geographic information systems (GIS) were utilized to analyze the levels of vulnerability, which were divided into five categories, ranging from very low vulnerability (level 1) to very high vulnerability (level 5). The study considered seven variables influencing vulnerability, including coastal slope, shoreline change rate, significant wave height, mean sea level rise, land use, population density, and mangrove forest width. The results of the study indicate that the majority of the coastline has a very low vulnerability level, covering an area of approximately 42.19 square kilometers (41.5% of the total area). The next level is high vulnerability, covering an area of 19.60 square kilometers (19.3% of the total area). The moderate vulnerability level covers approximately 15.85 square kilometers (15.6% of the total area). The low vulnerability level covers an area of about 14.04 square kilometers (13.8% of the total area). Lastly, the very high vulnerability level covers an area of 9.88 square kilometers (9.7% of the total area). The variables that have the most influence on the high vulnerability level are mangrove forest width, population density, and land use, in that order. This study provides valuable information for integrated coastal zone management to ensure the long-term sustainability of coastal areas.