The CoastSnap approach, born in Australia in 2017, aims to quantify the evolution of beaches and coastlines by combining photos taken by citizens and image processing algorithms from the field of coastal imagery. The concept is based on the installation of observation stations encouraging passers-by to take a photo on a fixed support. The photo is then added to a citizens’ photo library. By analyzing the images, it is possible to better understand the evolution of the coastline on different time scales (stormy, seasonal, annual, multi-year, etc.).
Since its launch in 2021, the Littoview pilot project, co-financed by the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region and European ERDF funds, has adapted this Australian concept to three resorts with different evolutionary issues: Lacanau (Gironde), Capbreton (Landes) and Saint-Jean-de-Luz (Pyrénées-Atlantiques).
This final report takes stock of all the work carried out by the BRGM, CATIE and ONF teams in charge of the Littoview project, and covers the following topics:
- participation at each site ;
the implementation of a data management and flow platform ; - scientific analysis;
- feedback to the public through various communication and awareness-raising initiatives.
On June 1, 2023 (the end date of the Littoview pilot project), the CoastSnap Nouvelle-Aquitaine system became part of the Observatoire de la côte de Nouvelle-Aquitaine (OCNA) project. The project continues with the installation of new CoastSnap observation stations in the region over the coming months, to improve knowledge of the evolution of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine coastline while fostering a shared culture of risk.
The opening of new stations is scheduled for autumn 2023, at the request of several local authorities.
