Managed retreat

Tollesbury bare ground

Freiston Shore low tide

Managed retreat is a strategy employed in coastal management to respond to the issue of sea level rise and coastal erosion. It involves the deliberate moving back of the current line of defense to a more sustainable position inland. This approach is considered when the cost of maintaining existing defenses is deemed unsustainable or when it is necessary to preserve natural coastal processes and habitats. Managed retreat allows for the creation or restoration of wetlands, salt marshes, and other coastal ecosystems that can provide natural protection against the forces of the sea, enhance biodiversity, and store carbon dioxide.

Overview

Managed retreat is often seen as an alternative to 'hold the line' strategies, where existing coastal defenses are maintained or strengthened. It is a controversial and complex strategy, as it involves the relocation of infrastructure, homes, and businesses. However, it is increasingly considered a viable and sustainable option in the face of climate change and its associated impacts on sea levels and storm intensity.

Benefits

The benefits of managed retreat include reduced maintenance costs of coastal defenses, increased resilience to climate change, restoration of natural habitats, improved water quality, and enhanced carbon sequestration. By allowing coastal areas to return to their natural state, managed retreat can also increase biodiversity and provide new recreational opportunities.

Challenges

The implementation of managed retreat faces several challenges. These include social, economic, and political resistance, as it involves relocating communities and businesses. There are also legal and property rights issues to consider, as well as the need for adequate compensation and support for those affected. Planning and executing a managed retreat strategy require careful consideration of the local context, including environmental, social, and economic factors.

Examples

Several countries and regions have implemented managed retreat strategies. In the United Kingdom, the Medmerry project in West Sussex is one of the largest managed retreat projects in Europe, creating new wetlands and wildlife habitats. In the United States, the state of Louisiana has included managed retreat in its coastal master plan to address land loss and sea level rise.

Conclusion

Managed retreat represents a proactive approach to coastal management, acknowledging the realities of climate change and the limits of traditional defense mechanisms. While it poses significant challenges, particularly in terms of community relocation and adaptation, it offers a sustainable path forward in preserving coastal ecosystems and reducing the long-term impacts of sea level rise and coastal erosion.