Comments on “Confirmation of beach accretion by grain-size trend analysis: Camposoto beach, Cádiz, SW Spain” by E. Poizot et al. (2013) Geo-Marine Letters 33(4)

Reply to J.J. Muñoz-Perez et al. Comments on “Confirmation of beach accretion by grain-size trend analysis: Camposoto beach, Cádiz, SW Spain” by E. Poizot et al. (2013) Geo-Marine Letters 33(4)

“…The difference between the two rates can be explained by the inferred processes as well as the spatial scale on which the estimations are based. Muñoz-Perez et al (2014) adopted the VVAA (2007) value as the actual rate of coastal erosion and retreat in the Cádiz study area. While this approach is not questioned in principle, it has to be taken into account that the results obtained by VVAA (2007) are based on climatechange scenarios, the uncertainties of which are evaluated using a set of climate models.…”

“…Even if the PRUDENCE database is one of the more accurate sources available for European climate change projections (spatial resolution of 50×50 km), the results are nevertheless derived from models and scenarios. As explained by Muñoz-Perez et al (2014), models are prone to error because small variations in input parameters can induce dramatically different results, to the point of being contradictory. As a consequence, and in the context of an undisputed rise in sea level, three kinds of complementary approaches need to be considered: (1) an approach based on the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the use of models targeted towards decision-makers and the public; (2) studies at a regional scale involving a synchronous characterization of the sedimentary dynamics at different locations; (3) a more local approach based on test locations monitored regularly throughout the year.…”

“…As remarked by Muñoz-Perez et al (2014), such studies are costly and time-consuming. It should therefore be of general interest to propose a more cost-effective method to the scientific community.…”

“…Muñoz-Perez et al (2014) have updated the information concerning the total volume and cost of nourishment operations at Camposoto beach and it is, of course, important to operate with precise and up-to-date information when assessing the cost of environmental operations such as beach nourishment. In the case of the "older" data cited in Poizot et al (2013), the conclusions nevertheless remain valid as they overall do reflect the physical and financial effort invested by national and local governmental authorities to support economic activities in the "sea-sun-sand" context.…”

“…They then proceed to place our findings within a wider context with the aim of stimulating further research. We appreciate this opportunity of responding to the comments of Muñoz-Perez et al (2014).…”