Waves crash against the shore, eroding land and threatening ecosystems.

The impact of these massive waves is not limited to coastal erosion; it can also have devastating effects on local ecosystems and human settlements.

Coastal Erosion

Coastal erosion is a significant concern in many parts of the world, particularly in regions prone to high-energy wave activity. The effects of coastal erosion can be far-reaching, impacting not only the physical environment but also the livelihoods of people living in these areas. Causes of Coastal Erosion:

• Wave Action: Waves are a primary driver of coastal erosion. As waves crash against the shore, they can displace and erode the sand and sediment, leading to a loss of coastal land.

  “The pictures are not of the beaches as they are today, but of what they would be like in 10 years’ time if we don’t take action.”

  The Importance of Coastal Management

  Coastal management is a critical aspect of maintaining the health and resilience of our coastlines. It involves the coordinated efforts of various stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and environmental organizations, to protect and preserve the natural resources of the coast.

  The Role of Coastal Management in Erosion Prevention

  Coastal management plays a vital role in preventing erosion, which is a major threat to coastal infrastructure and ecosystems. Erosion can be caused by a combination of natural and human-induced factors, including storms, sea level rise, and coastal development.

  Coastal destruction and ecosystem collapse due to rare giant waves caused by climate change.

  The Impact of Rare Giant Waves on Coastal Ecosystems

  The rare giant waves, generated by the ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, have caused significant damage to the east coast beaches. The waves, which were previously unheard of in the region, have left a trail of destruction in their wake.

  The Effects on Beach Erosion

  The giant waves have caused severe beach erosion, with some areas experiencing losses of up to 50% of their sand. This has resulted in the loss of habitat for various species of plants and animals that depend on the beach for survival. The loss of sand has also affected the local economy, with many businesses relying on tourism to generate revenue. The erosion of the beach has also led to increased risk of coastal flooding, as the reduced sand barrier can no longer protect against storm surges.*

  The Impact on Coastal Ecosystems

  The giant waves have had a profound impact on the coastal ecosystems, with many species of plants and animals struggling to adapt to the changing environment. The loss of habitat has led to a decline in the population of certain species, such as the endangered loggerhead turtle. The erosion of the beach has also disrupted the natural sediment transport process, leading to changes in the shape and structure of the coastline.*

  The Role of Climate Change

  The rare giant waves are a symptom of a larger problem – climate change. Rising sea levels and increased storm activity are causing more frequent and intense coastal erosion, which is having a devastating impact on coastal ecosystems.

  Mapping the Beaches of Australia

  The Australian coastline is vast and diverse, with over 25,000 beaches stretching across the country. Mapping these beaches is a complex task, requiring precise data and advanced technology. In recent years, coastal managers and researchers have turned to drones and laser scanners to create detailed topographic maps of Australia’s beaches.

  The Role of Drones in Beach Mapping

  Drones have become an essential tool in beach mapping, offering a cost-effective and efficient way to collect data. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors, drones can capture detailed images and measurements of the beach topography. This data can be used to identify areas of erosion, sedimentation, and other changes in the beach environment. Key benefits of using drones in beach mapping include:

  • High-resolution images and measurements
  • Cost-effective and efficient data collection
  • Ability to capture detailed information about the beach environment
  • Reduced risk of damage to the beach or surrounding areas

  The Role of Laser Scanners in Beach Mapping

  Laser scanners are another critical tool in beach mapping, providing highly accurate measurements of the beach topography.

  However, she noted that the erosion was still significant and had a major impact on the residents of the area.

  The Impact of Coastal Erosion on the Community

  The Effects on Residents

  • The erosion of the beach has resulted in the loss of homes and businesses, with some residents being forced to relocate. The loss of property values has also had a significant impact on the local economy. The erosion has also affected the community’s sense of security, with some residents feeling vulnerable to the threat of further erosion.