Macro Level Monitoring of Artificial Modification of the Coastline in the Seto Inland Sea area

Abstract

The Seto Inland Sea area holds more than 30% of Japan's national industrial production. The area was also once well known as a scenic coastal area because of its calm weather and waves. However, the natural environment in the coastal zone has been seriously altered since Japan's high economic growth period because of industrial development and residential use. This study focuses on the alteration of the natural coast in the Seto Inland Sea area. Mechanisms of modification of the natural environment are investigated. The results indicate that the natural coast in the area has been seriously altered in the 1960's and is still suffering ongoing developments. It is also suggested that the decrease in natural coast occurred firstly in the areas needing protection as designated by the Ministry of Construction. Furthermore, landfills have been putting additional pressure on these modified coastlines as they appear to be easier to implement in previously modified areas.