Desertification processes in the Apulian Ionic coastal zone : conceptual model and empirical investigation

The research will outline a conceptual model considering the relationships between factors influencing desertification and analyse some parameters referring to the specific study area. The case study, a dry sub-humid zone, presents desertification risks. Its varied geologic and geomorphologic structure and some features common to Mediterranean coastal zones, makes also a full scale laboratory for desertification risk processes of it. Climatic data investigation highlighted a decrease in annual rainfall and reduction of ram feeding the ground water resources. Satellite images and statistical data showed a territory affected by changes, especially in the coastal zones: i. patterns and rhythms of development, ii. growth of intensive agriculture practices, iii. increasing water use in agriculture, iv. salinisation and impoverishment of deep ground water resources; v. massive urbanisation processes. The vulnerability of this territory to desertification phenomena calls for urgent, effective actions to be taken such as the implementation of integrated environmental management policies.