Interacting with the coast: Residents’ knowledge and perceptions about coastal erosion (Mytilene, Lesvos Island, Greece)

Today coastal erosion is usually exacerbated by anthropogenic climate change and results in the loss of income and cultural norms, as well as in the loss or degradation of ecosystem services. Public perceptions and participation have an important role – often a legal one – in coastal management and response to coastal hazards. The objective of this study is to assess residents’ perceptions about coastal erosion and the significance of coastal protection and restoration. This paper presents the results of a study conducted in Mytilene, the main city on the island of Lesvos, Greece. Residents recognize the impact of coastal erosion on their daily lives and recognize the anthropogenic causes of coastal erosion problems including climate change impacts. They admit their share in creating pressures and impacts on the beaches and are aware of the common protection works such as sand nourishment, groins and breakwaters construction. However, while they perceive beaches as the public common, residents indicated unwillingness to pay for coastal zone restoration and protection. Results suggest that respondents prefer volunteering activities and public awareness actions to payment or charges for coastal zone protection.