People and coastlines

The sea plays an important part in human activities Large numbers of people live near the coast People have looked to the sea for energy (oil gas and wave power), transport, leisure and food

Interested parties in coastal management There are many different land uses found in coastal areas - for example, tourism, industry, fishing, trade and transport.

Common interest groups Local residents Environmental groups Developers Local councils National governments Tourist boards

Why would these groups be concerned about the coast?

Concerns about the coast Erosion is threatening beaches or coastal settlements People want to develop tourism in the area There is a danger of flooding if sea-levels rise There is a problem with sewage and/or pollution.

Physical management of the coast

Sea walls Sea walls are built to protect coastal towns from attack by the sea They have a curved top to deflect waves back out to sea The wall may be eroded over time

Groynes Groynes are low walls, often made of wood that are built at right angles to the coast They help trap sand that is being moved by longshore drift This holds the beach in place

Gabions Gabions are wire cages that are filled with small stones They are placed in front of beaches or sand dunes This protects them from further erosion

Boulders Large boulders (or rock armour) are placed at the base of cliffs or in front of sand dunes They help prevent erosion by reducing the power of the waves