Beaches of Ibiza and Formentera (Balearic Islands): a classification based on their environmental features, tourism use and management

A comprehensive classification of Ibiza and Formentera's beaches reveals a concerning trend: natural beaches (B-C) are at risk of transforming into urbanized ones (A), driven by tourism pressure. The study analyzed 100 beaches using 35 variables, including environmental state, tourism use, and management practices, employing statistical techniques like Cluster and PCA analysis. It highlights the dominance of urban beaches in Ibiza while underscoring the need for proactive management to mitigate degradation and preserve natural coastal ecosystems. This classification serves as a predictive tool for future scenarios, urging stakeholders to implement conservation measures to safeguard the remaining semi-natural and natural beaches.

Roig-Munar, F. X., Mir-Gual, M., Rodríguez-Perea, A., Pons, G. X., Martín-Prieto, J. Á., Gelabert, B., & Blázquez-Salom, M. (2013). Beaches of Ibiza and Formentera (Balearic Islands): a classification based on their environmental features, tourism use and management. Journal of Coastal Research, 165, 1850–1855. https://doi.org/10.2112/si65-313.1