Tourists in Malta are supporting climate change research by sharing holiday photos of the coast

During your summer holiday in Malta this year, you can enjoy the sun and sea, and help scientists with just a single photo taken on your smartphone.

Thanks to the international CoastSnap initiative, visitors to Malta’s popular Riviera Bay (Għajn Tuffieħa) can help scientists study the effects of climate change on the island’s coastline.

Originally launched in Australia, CoastSnap now operates on over 220 beaches across 21 countries. This year, Malta joined the global network, with plans to expand to more locations around the island.

Originally launched in Australia, CoastSnap now operates on over 220 beaches across 21 countries. This year, Malta joined the global network, with plans to expand to more locations around the island.

How can you take part?

Beachgoers can take part by visiting the CoastSnap point at Riviera Bay, located at the beach entrance. Place your phone in the special holder, which automatically frames the shot, then scan the QR code on the holder. After taking your photo, simply upload it following the instructions provided.

The collected photographs go into a special system that analyses changes in the beach landscape. The more photos - from different seasons and weather conditions - the more accurate the data for the scientists.

The CoastSnap project in Europe is most developed in France, Spain and the UK. Poland's participation in the project is symbolic and limited to a few amateur photos from beaches in Gdynia and Rewa.

A map of the locations of CoastSnap network points around the world can be found at this link.