How anthropogenic pressure affects beach sediment properties: a comparison between a natural beach (Ghajn Tuffieha) and an artificial beach (Bugibba Perched Beach)

Abstract

The coastal environment, apart from being shaped by the natural factors, is also influenced by human factors. The main focus of this study shall be identifying the change that humans may cause to the environment of beaches. Two differing beach environments are studied: an artificial beach - Bugibba Perched Beach - and a natural beach - Ghajn Tuffieha. This research is based on two aspects: granulometry and the spatial distribution of litter and beach users. With the help of granulometry, this research investigates whether humans affect sediment sorting through recreational activities, mainly tramping. The sand sieve analysis and microscopic analysis are used to test out results. Research is also conducted through observation to discover if relationships exist between the distribution of litter and that of people. Statistical analysis through using chi-square and the spearman rank test are also an important part of this study. The results of this research indicate that the sediment sampled is not affected by trampling affects. The sorting of sediment is unchanging from season to season and in zones of the beach were people are more clustered the sediment sorting seems to be the same as in other areas. The only difference that was evident in the study of granulometry occurred between the grains of Ghajn Tuffieha and those of Bugibba Perched Beach. No link seemed to be evident between the two variables (distribution of litter and beach users) and sediment sorting. From the sample carried out, it was shown that Bugibba Perched Beach was more littered than Ghajn Tuffieha in the period of the study. It seems that human intervention does not affect grain size sorting through trampling. However, anthropogenic disturbance is present in the form of litter. This research will therefore seek to shed light on a number of issues concerning human intervention on beaches. Key findings of this study and their implications are discussed.