Aspects of coastal erosion and protection in Europe

Abstract

The wide variety of physical, political, economic and cultural attributes along European coasts has led to different national management approaches to coastal protection. In all countries, this became problematic when the coast underwent anthropogenic impact and acquired relevant economic value for uses, such as, transport, military, tourism or conservation. However, common ground technology developed according to each country’s political traditions, technical restrictions and economic viability. This paper outlines the major management aspects of coastal erosion and defence in Europe and discusses the large spectrum of shore protection strategies used. It depicts the current coastal defence scene for 25 European countries, and points to the major trends and challenges faced by coastal managers, land owners and users of European coasts, as coastal management embraces both engineering as well as socio-economic aspects.