Description

Beach nourishment is an adaptation technology primarily used in response to shoreline erosion, although flood reduction benefits may also occur. It is a soft engineering approach to coastal protection which involves the artificial addition of sediment of suitable quality to a beach area that has a sediment deficit. Nourishment can also be referred to as beach recharge, beach fill, replenishment, re-nourishment and beach feeding. The description of this technology originates from Linham and Nicholls (2010).

Coastal setbacks are ‘a prescribed distance to a coastal feature such as the line of permanent vegetation, within which all or certain types of development are prohibited (Cambers, 1998). A setback may dictate a minimum distance from the shoreline for new buildings or infrastructure facilities, or may state a minimum elevation above sea level for development. Elevation setbacks are used to adapt to coastal flooding, while lateral setbacks deal with coastal erosion.

The description of this technology originates from Linham and Nicholls (2010).

Description

The ancient Andean technique of terracing consists of making cuts in steep slopes to form contour ridges and establish cultivation surfaces that are supported by stone walls. Because the terraces are positioned perpendicular to the flow of water they reduce erosion, retain soil and moisture and thus generate a microclimate conducive to crop growth.

Description

Windbreaks comprise one or more rows of trees and shrubs of different heights placed perpendicular to the prevailing wind direction. Their purpose is to reduce the force of the wind close to the ground, and thus its mechanical action on crops, pasture and livestock. They are used to curb wind erosion and to help regulate climate conditions on farms. Windbreaks may also be used as living fences that demarcate the boundaries of a property or zones within it.