Characterizing landuse changes in 1990–2010 in the coastal zone of Nantong, Jiangsu province, China

Coastal zones have the characteristics of rich biodiversity and high biological productivity. Based on TM images of 1990 and ETM images of 2000 and 2010, landuse in the coastal zone of Nantong (China) was classified as tidal salt marshes, silty beaches, shoals, aquaculture farms, construction land and other landuse types. Changes of landuse area and pattern were analyzed by landuse mapping and the corresponding statistical data. In 1990–2010, the terrestrial area increased notably and the land-sea demarcation line moved evidently in the direction of the ocean. Terrestrial expansion brought by natural silting was considerable and the overall trends of landuse pattern evolutions in the region were consistent with the guidance and strength of coastal development schemes in 1990–2010. Despite the fact that reclaiming along the coastal region can increase land resources, it may also cause serious damages to environmental quality and ecological health. In Jiangsuʹs coastal development, we should be cautious about the scope, speed, strength and mode of the schemes so as to avoid irreversible damages to coastal ecosystem.