Abstract

A growing number of the world’s population now live along the coastline, thereby increasing the pressures and risks that coastal systems face, posing a significant threat to both lives and properties, as any hazard in these regions could lead to both biophysical and socioeconomic losses. The combined stresses of population expansion and other factors like climate change require that adequate adaptation strategies be put in place. The process of adaptation begins with assessing the level of vulnerability in the region. This article presents an overview of the various methods available in the literature for carrying out a vulnerability assessment of coastal regions, which helps to identify, highlight, and prioritize the susceptible areas to assist coastal planners and managers in preparing and protecting the region and habitation from permanent inundation and loss.