Assessing the performance of natural and nature based defences

Coastal habitats can substantially reduce the damages caused by coastal storms. However, the value of these natural defences is still not fully recognised. Consequently habitats are being destroyed or severely degraded in many parts of the world. Furthermore, despite widespread interest in natural and nature based coastal defence solutions, the uptake of such approaches is limited by a lack of information on their performance.

This paper provides further evidence of the coastal protection value of existing habitats. Field evidence shows that on average, coastal habitats reduce wave heights between 31% and 72%, do provide risk reduction services and can be cheaper than hard structures. The paper also outlines a generic framework the role of natural and nature based approaches to be valued at local/regional/global scales. Application of this approach at a global scale shows that coral reefs provide $6B of coastal protection services annually. The paper concludes with some recommendations for the further research that is needed to support the wider uptake of natural and nature based solutions.