A geomorphological classification for the Gozitan coast

Abstract

The geomorphology of Gozo is one of its environmental assets. Through the span of time, geomorphological processes generated different landforms that today embellish the island with its scenic beauty and rural character. Geomorphological processes have produced a varied coastline, restricted in accessibility where it controls the inhabitants lifestyle and their living. This dissertation presents a study which discusses the physical earth science from the different angle of observational study. The Gozitan coastline shows characteristics that are being worked out by var10us geomorphological processes. The major issue of this coastal geomorphological study is an accurate classification of the Gozitan coast based on the physical processes in operation. This is the aim of this dissertation and to create a geomorphological classification for the island and to identify and describe the various physical processes which are acting on the coast. Various survey methodologies were adopted to record and identify and record geomorphological processes. A classification based on six physical themes was developed. These are ; (1) Faults, (2) Mass Movement, (3) Cliffs,(4)Shore platforms, (5) Loose sediments (6) Waves and wind energy. Such characteristics were mapped and geo referenced in order to be overlayed for a better and accurate analysis of the geomorphological processes. This study is a baseline of the coastal geomorphological research of the island of Gozo, where diverse studies could be developed from such work.