The potential use of remote sensing and GIS techniques for sustainable development in the coastal plain between Halayb and Shalateen, Egypt

The Red Sea coastal plain between Halayb and Shalateen represents one of the localities with great potential for future sustainable development. The area is almost flat with Quaternary deposits from the western wadies towards the Red Sea shoreline. Due to the general character of the area, it is promising for reclamation, tourism, and industrial activities. This paper highlights the environmental characteristics of the area for sustainable development using remote sensing and GIS techniques. Geomorphological analysis, assessment of soil pollution (radiological and heavy metal distribution), groundwater assessment, and detection of change to the shoreline have been carried out. Geomorphologically, the most suitable part of the study area for future planning is the southeastern region. The northern area is not appropriate as it is classified as third-order drainage and will be exposed to flash floods that …