METHODS
Below, you find introductions to the methods tested in LIFE Coast Adapt. Each method is delved into under the link Progress (above) where you also find documentation.
Removing hard structures
Concrete pipes and piers are removed in places where the waves dig out of the shore around these hard structures. The goal is to re-establish beaches that can withstand both floods and erosion. The purpose of the removal is to make the ocean currents move more naturally, in order to keep the sand at the shore.
Read more about the method.
Beach nourishment
Sand is laid out. The beach nourishment takes place both at the shoreline and outside the breaking zone of the waves, at a depth of about 2-5 meters.
Data and research from the Swedish Geotechnical Institute show that beach nourishment is one of the best methods for combating beach erosion.
Read more about the method.
Creating wetland
A new wetland can prevent stormwater from flowing directly into the sea.
It absorbs and attenuates energy from ocean currents and floods.
The idea is that the wetland will weaken the water flows, thus reduce the negative effects of erosion. In addition, the conditions for viable biological diversity are improved.
Read more about the method.
Planting eelgrass
Adult shoots of eelgrass are taken from a donor meadow. The shoots are planted at a depth of 1.5-2.5 meters. Meadows of eelgrass increase biodiversity and are vital environments for fish and other marine animals, while providing natural coastal protection in vulnerable areas.
Read more about the method.
Natural reefs for macroalgae
This method had to be called off. In Sweden, individual rights are very strong, and since a person with eel fishing rights opposed to the measure, no permit is likely. The method is to place stone structures in the water. In case of eel fishing taking place in the future, the reefs might constitute an obstacle to the fishing tools.
Read more about the method.
Monitoring
The methods tested and the sites are monitored. Monitoring shows whether the actions, to any extent, provide an erosion resilient coastline, and if biodiversity and ecosystems are helped.
Topography and bathymetry are gauged. A digital terrain model (the vegetation is removed digitally, leaving just the underlying terrain) will be created.
Read more about the method.
Ecosystem-based erosion protection for rivers
Investigations done by the project show that the intended rootward revetment is not as relevant as estimated. The focus by Nybroån will be on securing the stability of the river and making sure that biodiversity benefits.
Read more about the method.
Removing invasive species & restoring sand dunes
The method consists of two parts: to remove or replace invasive plant species, and to promote the formation of new sand dunes. The invasive species threaten biodiversity, as they change the environment for wildlife and displace the vegetation that naturally belongs here. Restoring sand dunes increases the possibilities for a healthy ecosystem.
Read more about the method.
Legal processes
Before actions C2-C6
are started, legal processes concerning the Swedish environmental
code must be completed. For eight of the
actions, all processes are finished. It is sometimes
difficult to interpret the legislation for climate adaptation. An advice is to hire a legal expert for the process, always.
Read more about the method.