Application of a novel approach to beach classification in the Maltese Islands

Beach classification has been presented as an extremely effective management tool, not only allowing a better-informed option to potential beach users, but moreover presenting a technique for assessing the aspects which require upgrading in order to further improve this recreational productʹs quality. This document reviewed current beach classification systems and thus identified a general absence of information in methodologies, taking into consideration a knowledgeable awareness of an extensive and wide-ranging spectrum of bathing area aspects with a recognized importance to a broad beach-user audience. In this context, a novel beach classification system has been proposed. This innovative system is based on five separate rating schemes addressing, in order of priority, safety aspects, water quality, facilities, hinterland and litter. The proposed technique proposes a Beach Registration technique for collection of bathing-area-related data, that may be subsequently utilized for classification purposes. Application of this technique is presented as a case study of four bathing areas in the Maltese Islands.