1.1.10 Impacts of human activity on coasts

What are soft engineering techniques used for in coastal environments?

They are adoptive sustainable management and conservation strategies.

What does integrated shoreline management consider?

All conflicting needs and constraints along the coast.

What is an example of a world heritage site mentioned in the notes?

Great Barrier Reef.

What are marine conservation zones?

National marine reserves in England and Wales.

What are Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)?

Protected areas in the UK for their unique biodiversity and ecosystems.

What is dredging?

Extraction of sand and gravel from the seabed for construction.

What is a negative effect of offshore dredging?

Destruction of seabed habitats and changes to the marine food web.

How does dredging affect beach profiles?

It changes wave types and sediment flows, increasing erosion rates.

What type of impact does conversion have on sand dunes?

Dune area gets urbanized, altering natural vegetation.

What is the effect of sand removal from dunes?

It allows further erosion by wind.

What activity contributes to overuse of sand dunes?

Recreational activities and tourism.

What external factors can impact sand dunes?

Human activities elsewhere, like building sea defences that reduce sediment input.

What management strategies can reduce impacts on sand dunes?

Complete reconstruction, revegetation, and removing external factors.

What does Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) aim to achieve?

Balance among environmental, social, cultural, and recreational needs.

Who participates in ICZM?

All stakeholders in the coastal zone.

What is the goal of ICZM for future generations?

To maintain the potential of the area while meeting current needs.

How large is the Ainsdale sand dune system?

7 km².

Why are large numbers of visitors attracted to Ainsdale sand dunes?

Wide beaches for walking, dune exploration, and quad biking.

What is footpath erosion?

Removal of vegetation through human activity leading to wind erosion.

Who manages the Ainsdale sand dunes?

Natural England.

What is a zoning system in the context of Sefton Coast?

A system that designates intensive management areas for tourism.

How does the management ensure footpath protection?

By covering footpaths with boardwalks.

What are the restrictions placed on vehicle access to the dune system?

Attempts are made to prevent vehicles from entering.

How is access to the nature reserve regulated?

By permit only, limiting visitor numbers.

What role do wardens play in managing Ainsdale sand dunes?

They oversee and manage the area.

What restoration work is carried out in the dunes?

Planting in damaged areas to encourage regrowth.

What has changed in the management of the dunes since 2010?

Reduced funding leading to fewer wardens and repairs.

What is the consequence of fewer wardens patrolling the area?

Increased damage due to more vehicles entering the dunes.

What is a honeypot area in coastal management?

Areas of high visitor concentration that require intensive management.