soft engineering

Question 1

what is soft engineering?

Answer 1

aims to work with and complement the physical environment by using natural methods for coastal defence

Question 2

what is the description of beach nourishment and what are the pros and cons?

Answer 2

Description: Sediment is taken from offshore sources to build up the existing beach

👍 Builds up beach, protecting cliff and increasing tourist potential
👍 Cost effective and looks natural

👎 Needs constant maintenance
👎 Dredging may have
consequences on local coastal habitats

Question 3

what is the description of cliff regrading and drainage and what are the pros and cons?

Answer 3

Description: Reduces the angle of the cliff to help stabilise it. A steeper cliff would be more likely to collapse

👍 Cost effective

👎 Cliff may collapse suddenly as the cliff is drier leading to rock falls which pose a hazard
👎 May look unnatural

Question 4

what is the description of dune stabilisation and what are the pros and cons?

Answer 4

Description: Marram grass planted. The roots help bind the dunes, protecting land behind

👍 Cost effective and creates an
important wildlife habitat

👎 Planting is time consuming

Question 5

what is the description of marsh creation and what are the pros and cons?

Answer 5

Description: Type of managed retreat allowing low-lying areas to flood

👍 Creates an important wildlife habitat

👎 Farmers lose land and may need compensation as a result