Sustainable development in vulnerable Coastal zones: The Case of Abruzzo

Coastal areas are pivotal in socio-economic and environmental contexts. They face heightened vulnerability due to their strategic significance and high population density, particularly evident in countries like Italy. The study areas are the 19 Abruzzo Region coastal municipalities, with a specific focus on the coastal belt of 1km. The main objective is to examine urban transformations and their causes driven by economic and demographic factors. For a strategic perspective on future territorial transformations the Planning Tool Mosaic (PTM) has been used. Municipal plans in Italy often overlook neighboring municipalities, resulting in disjointed management policies linked only by administrative borders. This study aims to provide a deep understanding of urban dynamics, identifying areas of high environmental value and assessing the economic and demographic energy of each municipality. By evaluating these aspects holistically, the study seeks to justify and adjust planning provisions to ensure sustainability, mitigating the loss of ecosystem services like crop production, water storage, and carbon sequestration. This comprehensive approach is crucial for fostering sustainable development in vulnerable coastal territories.