IMPETUS project: Catalonia’s innovative approach to combatting Coastal Erosion - A success story in Dune Restoration

    IMPETUS, Story | ESCI | 

    As many Europeans head to the beaches this summer, coastal erosion remains a significant threat to shorelines worldwide. The removal of soil and sand by wind, water, and human activity has left several European coastal areas vulnerable to flooding and extreme tides, endangering both human and marine life. In a new video, we explore how IMPETUS partners in Spain successfully restored dunes in the region, offering a sustainable approach to protecting beaches in coastal Catalonia.

    Global predictions suggest that 50% of the world’s beaches could vanish by the century's end. The Catalan coast, affected by port and dam construction, faces severe erosion as natural sediment flows are blocked. Traditional sand replenishment methods are unsustainable and costly, highlighting the need for long-term, eco-friendly solutions.

    Sand Traps in Sant Pere Pescador: A Success Story Sant Pere Pescador exemplifies effective dune restoration. Carla Garcia-Lozano from the University of Girona reports the beach has narrowed by 50 meters over 50 years due to erosion. In response, the Government of Catalonia and Costa Brava's Natural Park, with local support, began a beach-dune restoration project.

    In 2020, cane fences were installed to trap sand, increasing dune height and volume. IMPETUS researchers have used drones since 2021 to monitor changes, showing a 40% increase in dune height over three years. Frederic Suñe Tobella, owner of Campsite Las Dunas, notes that maintained dunes protected their property during Storm Gloria in 2020, showcasing their climate resilience.

    Expanding to Urban Areas: Calafell Building on rural success, the IMPETUS project now aims to apply these techniques in urban areas, starting with Calafell. This city, part of a region with 43% of Catalonia’s population, has replaced natural dunes with promenades and buildings. Aron Marcos Fernández, Calafell’s Councilor for Environment, emphasizes the beach’s critical role in tourism.

    The city council removed parts of the promenade to allow natural sand deposits. Xavier Roig Munar, Manager of beach-dune systems, reports that sand traps in Calafell have effectively reshaped the beach to withstand storms.

    Nature-Based Solutions for Coastal Protection These initiatives highlight the importance of natural solutions for coastal protection. While short-term measures like elevated homes and dike walls offer immediate relief, dune restoration provides a sustainable, long-term strategy. The IMPETUS project’s precise measurements and positive results offer a valuable model for coastal communities worldwide.

    As sea levels rise and storms intensify, Catalonia’s dune restoration approach demonstrates how nature-based solutions can protect and sustain beaches for the future.

    Watch the full video to learn more about Catalonia’s successful dune restoration efforts and their global potential.