Free Essay On Stabilizing Shorelines Throughout The World

There are four major ways and techniques in stabilizing the shorelines which are structural, non-structural, hybrid and policy stabilization. Structural stabilization is temporary method using hardened structures to lessen the erosion in the shoreline lands. Some examples of structural stabilization are the concrete sea walls, breakwaters, and stone reinforcements. Non-structural stabilization used plantings and other organic materials to protect the natural environment of the shoreline (Mangor, 2004). It could be permanent if maintained properly. Examples of non-structural stabilization include vegetation plantings, submerged aquatic vegetation and beach nourishment. Hybrid stabilization is a combination of structural and non-structural stabilization. It could be a combination of rock structures and vegetation plantings. It could also be permanent if maintained properly. The last type of technique is the policy or planning techniques (Mangor, 2004). It is the use of regulations, laws and policies in order to control the activities of humans in the shorelines. It does not include physical alteration of the shoreline lands. Examples of policy and planning stabilization include land-use planning and construction set-backs. It could be permanent or temporary (Mangor, 2004).
Development of coastal areas could contribute to the erosion in the shorelines. Coastal structures could interfere with the littoral transport which could result to coastal erosion. Examples of these structures which could trap the sand in the upstream side are ports, Groynes structures and river mouths (Mangor, 2004). Development of coastal areas includes construction of roads and buildings. Creation of roads and rooftops would increase the number of impervious surfaces which will result to increase in water runoff since there would be less soil to absorb it. Increase in the water runoff will increase the soil erosion and coastal erosion (Mangor, 2004).

Reference:

Mangor, K. (2004). Shoreline Management Guidelines. DHI Water and Environment