Coastal Geoheritage and Sustainability: A Study in the Low Coast of Costa Branca, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

This study assesses the risk of geoheritage degradation along a low-lying coastal stretch Okin the municipalities of Macau, Guamaré, and Galinhos, located in the central portion of Rio Grande do Norte’s northern coastline, Brazil. Twelve geosites, inventoried based on their scientific value, susceptibility to degradation, and representation of diverse coastal processes and landforms, were numerically assessed for their degradation risk. The methodology comprised 11 sub-criteria grouped into three main criteria: natural vulnerability, anthropogenic vulnerability, and public use. The results indicate that all 12 geosites in the study area are subject to moderate to high degradation risk, with the highest levels observed in those with the most evident signs of human use and intervention. To mitigate these impacts, the implementation of access restrictions or protective measures by local authorities is recommended. Furthermore, raising awareness among local communities about the environmental consequences of their activities and the geosites’ role in promoting sustainability is essential. Given the region’s heightened vulnerability to sea level oscillations, future assessments should incorporate climate change implications into the assessment criteria.