Coastline change and implications for habitat loss

• Published in: Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers. Maritime engineering 2004-09, Vol.157 (3), p.133-142
• Main Authors: Pontee, N. I., Drummond, J. R., Morrisey, D. J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1741-7597; 1751-7737
• DOI: 10.1680/maen.2004.157.3.133

This paper assesses the main controls on macro- and meso-scale evolution and contemporary morphological form of the East Lothian coastline. Importantly, many contemporary environments on this coast represent features inherited from earlier in the Holocene. Future changes to coastal environments are strongly dependent on sediment availability which is difficult to predict. However, it is likely that falling sea levels throughout much of the Holocene facilitated coastal accretion, which is now likely to be replaced by coastal erosion under rising sea levels and potentially increased storminess. The magnitude and location of future coastal change has important consequences for designated sites, which comprise habitats of local, national and international value. Although the loss of habitats is likely to be seen as a negative point, the potential for a return to a more dynamic functioning coast offers some conservation benefits, particularly for mobile habitats such as dunes.