CLIMATE CHANGE AND TOURISM PRACTICES AT MACANETA BEACH , MARRACUENE DISTRICT

Abstract

The article analyzes the relationship between climate change and tourism practices at Macaneta Beach, located in the Marracuene district, Maputo province. This coastal area, characterized by extensive vegetated dunes, plays a crucial role in protecting the shoreline and preserving biodiversity. The study aims to examine how climate change and tourism activities contribute to the removal and degradation of coastal dunes. The research employed a mixed qualitative and quantitative approach, utilizing direct observation, questionnaires, literature review, and statistical analysis to assess the perceptions of local residents, tourists, and tourism operators. The results indicate that unplanned tourism growth, combined with the effects of climate change, has caused coastal erosion, loss of native vegetation, and socio-environmental impacts such as pollution, landscape destruction, and displacement of fishing communities. Approximately 56% of the coastal area was found to be at risk of erosion, revealing high environmental vulnerability. It is concluded that the lack of planning and monitoring exacerbates dune degradation. Sustainable tourism strategies, local replanting, environmental education, and participatory management are recommended to promote climate adaptation and ensure the ecological and socio-economic balance of the region.