ABSTRACT
The Portuguese continental coastline extends for 987 km, centralizing around 75% of the national population in just 25% of the territory, generating 85% of the gross domestic product (GDP). Approximately 30% of the coastline is considered a protected area and included in the National Network of Protected Areas, with around 50% including areas belonging to the Rede Natura 2000. The exponential growth that has occurred in recent decades, resulting in increased demographic pressure on the coastal strip, has been promoting the occupation of dangerous zones subject to possible landslides. It is known that the adulteration of the physical landscape, in the name of development, has reached alarming proportions. The loss of territory and damage to coastal infrastructure are visible consequences of human intervention on the coast. As a result, it is crucial to investigate the mass movements of cliffs. This type of movement is difficult to predict due to its lack of warning signs and displacement speeds that occur in seconds. Once the movement begins, it is impossible to contain it, making it necessary to identify potential weaknesses in cliffs and minimize inherent risks by understanding rupture mechanisms. With this communication it is intended to present the geomechanical study of the stability of several cliffs of the municipality of Almada.
