CASE STUDIES

Coastal communities are at risk of, or are already facing, multiple climate-related changes such as rising sea levels, increased ocean temperatures, and coastal erosion. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative planning between communities, local institutions, and governments. Here are some of the approaches being utilized:

1. Adaptive Planning

   • Collaborative development of long-term strategies that integrate climate projections and risk assessments to guide community actions.

2. Hard Protection

   • Sea Walls: Constructing barriers to protect against sea-level rise and storm surges.

   • Artificial Reefs: Installing structures to reduce wave energy and protect shorelines.

3. Soft Protection

   • Beach Nourishment: Adding sand to eroded beaches to restore their natural state.

   • Dune Management: Enhancing natural dunes to act as barriers against storm surges and erosion.

4. Accommodation to Reduce Vulnerability

   • Floating Houses: Designing homes that can float during floods.

   • Flood Hazard Mapping: Identifying areas at risk of flooding and planning accordingly.

   • Adapting Urban Drainage Systems: Modifying drainage infrastructure to handle increased rainfall and prevent flooding.

5. Ecosystem Protection

   • Wetlands Restoration: Reinstating or enhancing wetlands to act as natural buffers against flooding and erosion.

   • Reforestation: Planting trees and restoring natural vegetation to stabilize soil and reduce runoff.

6. Managed Retreat

   • Rethinking Coastal Living: Developing new living strategies that consider long-term climate impacts.

   • Relocating Neighborhoods/Cities: Moving vulnerable communities to safer areas.

​

​​

• Engaging community members in planning and implementing adaptation strategies to ensure they are effective and culturally appropriate.

​

​

• Supporting businesses in assessing their climate risks and integrating sustainable practices to build resilience.