The Executive Director of the Tourism Institute was appointed by the World Bank (Georgian Office) as a local consultant in tourism to conduct a comprehensive analysis on the Impacts of Climate Change on Georgia’s Coastal Zone.
The Georgian coast, boasting a population of 554,700 inhabitants, plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economy, contributing approximately 20% to its GDP, totaling US$2.14 billion. Stretching from the mouth of the river Psou to the settlement of Sarpi, the coastal zone spans approximately 120 km north to south. This region encompasses vital ecosystems, including river deltas, coastal crops, forestry, and bustling commercial activities. Moreover, it presents vast potential for the expansion of the already thriving tourism industry.
However, the rapid development of tourism infrastructure in the southern part of the coast has heightened competition for land, water, and other natural resources. Human interventions, such as man-made barriers along rivers, have altered freshwater flow patterns, exacerbating the situation. Additionally, the effects of climate change, including glacier melts and changes in rainfall patterns, have led to a significant decline in the crucial ecosystem service of sediment transport and deposition, resulting in increased coastal erosion. The looming threats of climate change and associated disaster risks further compound these challenges.
To delve deeper into the findings of this study, interested parties can access the report via the World Bank Group’s e-library.