The rapid pace of development in coastal areas often comes at an environmental and ecological cost, with the accelerated loss of coastal nearshore habitats such as seagrass meadows and mangrove forests. However, the presence of these nearshore coastal habitats play an important role in the maintenance of resilience of coastal cities and populations. They confer resilience via ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, moderation of natural hazards and nutrient cycling. There is a recognised and urgent need to stem the loss of these valuable habitats in balance with infrastructure development and economic needs. Continue reading “Safeguarding coastal biodiversity with ecological engineering”
Category: Environment and ecosystems
Creating positive environmental impacts with artificial reefs
How to recover good environmental status with new marine habitats
Marine structures – such as piers, windmills and bridges – typically have a bad name when it comes to their effects on the environment. But did you know that their existence could impact marine environments positively too? Continue reading “Creating positive environmental impacts with artificial reefs”
Using EMMP to proactively manage and protect the environment
Rapid coastal development, combined with population growth and global industrialisation, is placing coastal and marine environments under increasing pressure. New ports and harbours, coastal defence and climate change adaptation measures, as well as land reclamation and dredging works are imperative in order to support our existing and future economy. Continue reading “Using EMMP to proactively manage and protect the environment”