Based on the information discussed in the last several sections, it should now be evident to you that plate tectonics has a strong influence on the characteristics of continental margins and the associated coastal zones. There are, however, several other key secondary influences that also affect how coastal zones evolve. These include:
- sediment supply,
- glaciations (direct and indirect),
- climate,
- hydrographic regime.
Each of these will be discussed individually in the following sections to provide a comprehensive framework of the types of processes that need to be considered when attempting to evaluate coastal characteristics and evolution.