The Coastal Scenery Evaluation System was used to analyze the landscape of touristic beaches at the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, using a checklist with 26 physical and human parameters. The beaches are divided into classes ranging from 1 (extremely attractive natural site) to 5 (unattractive urban areas). The data reflects the natural and anthropogenic characteristics of the coastal Noronha scenery, which have international relevance and are between classes 1-4. Class 3 and 4 beaches are associated with anthropogenic factors/parameters. Seasonal sedimentary stock variation has also contributed to the differences in classes between the seasons at some beaches. The results of this study are useful to create new perspectives for sustainable development based on the singularities of this touristic resource - the landscape. The Fernando de Noronha Archipelago depends on its landscapes for tourism. Therefore, government policies should seek the sustainable management of its beaches, so as to ensure the protection of natural and cultural resources.
Colombia has approximately 379,954 hectares of mangrove forests distributed along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea coasts. Such forests are experiencing the highest annual rate of loss recorded in South America and, in the last three decades, approximately 40,000 hectares have been greatly affected by natural and, especially, human impacts. This study determined, by the use of Landsat multispectral satellite images, the evolution of three mangrove forests located in the Colombian Caribbean Sea: Malloquín, Totumo, and La Virgen swamps. Mangrove forest at Mallorquín Swamp recorded a loss of 15 ha in the period of 1985–2018, associated with alterations in forest hydrology, illegal logging, urban growth, and coastal erosion. Totumo Swamp lost 301 ha in the period 1985–2018 associated with changes in hydrological conditions, illegal logging, and increased agricultural and livestock uses. La Virgen Swamp presented a loss of 31 ha in the period of 2013–2018 that was linked to the construction of a roadway, alterations of hydrological conditions, illegal logging, and soil urbanization, mainly for tourist purposes. Although Colombian legislation has made efforts to protect mangrove ecosystems, human activities are the main cause of mangrove degradation, and thus it is mandatory for the local population to understand the value of the ecosystem services provided by mangroves.