The Fragility and Conservation of the World's Coastal Dunes: Geomorphological, Ecological and Socioeconomic Perspectives

Abstract

Coastal dunes have a worldwide distribution and are comprised of a variety of forms going through successional changes in geomorphology and ecological association. Some changes are driven by natural processes whereas other changes are products of human endeavors. Coastal dunes are highly valuable multifunctional ecosystems that occupy a unique natural niche. Further, these same systems are ideal locations for recreation, replenishment of local aquifers, and coastal defense (van der Meulen et al., Chap. 16, this Vol.). However, in spite of their many valuable attributes, these ecosystems share a history of exploitation and mismanagement. The greatest threat to their survival is overuse, urban expansion, urban sprawl, mining, and pollution. Frequently, these systems and their functions are completely replaced by high rise buildings, residential development, cottages, tourist resorts, and recreation parks. The eventual consequence of such activities is the destruction of a fragile ecosystem. Tourism, in particular, has become an important activity with economic benefits that have resulted in severe environmental degradation of dunes. For example, hotels and houses are built directly on the dunes and trampling by people kills the stabilizing vegetation, thus exacerbating the process of sand movement and dune erosion. These changes in sediment supply and the regional sand budget produce extensive geomorphological and ecological damage with important economic consequences (Psuty, Chap. 2, this Vol.). As a result, there is the net loss of coastal dunes, their dynamics, and their natural biological diversity. Dune slacks have been similarly subjected to systematic alteration through overexploitation by grazing, hay making, and growth of crops. Slowly, this alarming trend is reaching decision-makers, politicians, and the public in general, and, gradually, coastal dunes are becoming protected