The coastal indicator knowledge and information system is an information source and education tool for managers, students, researchers and policy makers with an interest in the coastal zone. It consists of a series of fact sheets that provide background scientific information on measures that are commonly thought of or used as indicators. These “indicators” are described in terms of:
what they are;
what causes them to change;
their significance;
considerations for their measurement and interpretation;
existing information and data; and
key questions and further research needs.
The indicator fact sheets are linked to other coastal fact sheets (including those on human pressure indicators, coastal issues and economic considerations) and to conceptual models of estuarine function . In this way, we try to convey the complexity of the various measures, and where possible, their interconnectedness and the coastal geomorphic settings where they are best applied.