Sea defence measures are typically designed to prevent or mitigate the effects of flooding, erosion, and storm damage, while coastal management measures are designed to protect and enhance the natural environment of the coast.
Some common sea defence measures include:
* Sea walls: These are vertical structures built along the shoreline to prevent wave overtopping.
* Groynes: These are structures built perpendicular to the shoreline to trap sand and prevent erosion.
* Breakwaters: These are structures built offshore to dissipate wave energy and protect the shoreline from erosion.
* Beach nourishment: This involves adding sand to a beach to increase its elevation and reduce the risk of erosion.
* Dune restoration: This involves planting vegetation on sand dunes to help stabilise them and prevent erosion.
Some common coastal management measures include:
* Land-use planning: This involves regulating the use of land in coastal areas to protect sensitive habitats and prevent development in high-risk areas.
* Habitat conservation: This involves protecting and restoring natural habitats in coastal areas to support biodiversity and provide ecosystem services.
* Water quality management: This involves regulating the discharge of pollutants into coastal waters to protect marine life and human health.
* Climate change adaptation: This involves taking measures to adapt to the impacts of climate change on coastal areas, such as rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity.
In general, sea defence measures are more focused on protecting the land from the sea, while coastal management measures are more focused on protecting the broader coastal environment. However, the two are often complementary and can be used together to achieve a comprehensive approach to coastal protection.
