Deposition Dynamics of Posidonia oceanica “Banquettes” on Calabrian Sandy Beaches (Southern Italy)
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
This paper contains very interesting data, in particular, those where the information contained is of particular international relevance. The prairies of Posidonia oceanica, a marine endemic plant to the Mediterranean, form a habitat of great ecological value (food, refuge) for marine biodiversity. In addition, they also perform other very relevant ecological functions such as filters and traps for plastic waste in the coastal zone, and it is currently considered a pioneering natural mechanism to capture and dispose of waste in the ocean. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in recognition of its multiple benefits for the environment. It is necessary to protect and conserve these very vulnerable.
General comments
This communication addresses recent data on coastal management projects on the beaches of southern Italy (Calabria), indicatives of an increase in coastal erosion processes, which is associated with the decrease of Posidonia oceanica “banquettes in these regions. It intends to contribute to a change in concepts and attitudes in coastal management by the Italian National authorities and with effects on the perception of tourists who regularly visit these regions. The paper provides a very important approach to the problem in Italian coasts, namely on Calabrian sandy beaches (Southern Italy) both in the conceptual aspect and in the support of recent data obtained in the region. However, the proposal suggested by the authors for resolving the issue seems to me to be too simplistic that perhaps lacks a more integrated approach and without a framework that involves several stakeholders capable of greater effectiveness in its implementation. In my opinion, the action plan suggested by the paper falls short of what is necessary for an effective change in the paradigm.
Suggestions
When addressing the pressing issue of sustainable development in the Mediterranean coastal region, including the problems inherent in the rapid increase in the rate of urbanization, tourism, development and increasing degradation of the coastal zone, namely the erosion problems, the need to establish a structured base based on information and collaboration of the various partners to resolve the problems. Another problem associated with decision-making ability is associated with the current lack of information timely and action-oriented. The paper should also address this need. which will also contribute substantially to the improving access to environmental data and information at the regional and national, both in governmental instances and in other institutions, as well as for the general public throughout the Mediterranean region. Finally, a third axis of action should include a broader Outreach plan that would include a communication campaign at national level implemented in an integrated manner in the various media, social networks and also in the building of relationships with the specialized national press and to enhance exposure and media coverage and increase the notoriety of this problem at a local and possibly global level.
Following this statement, I recommend the publication of the paper for publication on the Journal “Coasts” with minor revisions.
Author Response
I have added, in red characters, the following sentences:
Author Response File: 
Author Response.docx
Reviewer 2 Report
It is necessary to add more information about the Posidonia banquettes on the Calabrian coast
Author Response
I have added, in red characters, the following sentences:
Author Response File: Author Response.docx
Round 2
Reviewer 2 Report
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