Sea defence and nature conservation: Threat or opportunity

Abstract

ABSTRACT1. New land has been 'won' from the sea by the process of embankment for centuries. It is perhaps not surprising, given the long term commitment to the protection of the land so created, that current works are concerned largely with reinforcing the existing line of sea defence.2. Those concerned with nature conservation have likewise in the past, expended considerable energy in trying to protect natural and semi-natural habitat from destruction and exploitation by man. This has included land claim and associated sea defence works.3. This paper examines these two perceptions of 'coastal protection' and suggests a more enlightened approach which accepts change as an important part of coastal development, and provides a more positive way forward. Those concerned with sea defence and nature conservation may have to accept that protection of the current line of sea defence or existing coastal habitats, may not be the best option in all cases.

Saltmarsh Conservation, Management and Restoration

“…In fact, the author suggested a policy involving developing a strategy where the allocation of resources was to "areas where the needs of sea defence and coast protection were paramount, provides opportunities for 'soft' engineering and increases the size of the zone in which the natural sea defences can operate" (Doody 1992). In fact, the author suggested a policy involving developing a strategy where the allocation of resources was to "areas where the needs of sea defence and coast protection were paramount, provides opportunities for 'soft' engineering and increases the size of the zone in which the natural sea defences can operate" (Doody 1992).…”