Vertical sea-wall structures continue to protect our coastlines from the impact of climate change

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A few decades ago, engineering codes did not even mention sea-level rise. Or, if it was stated, there was great uncertainty how much to allow for. ‘How much’ is still a topic of debate, but these days we do have more references to rely on. The ‘1:100 design storm condition’ from a few decades ago has changed. While it is unfair to expect sea defences to protect us against any storm that comes our way, we do still expect sufficient protection against the ‘design’ storm.

Stabilising coastal erosion

Along with the climate change problem comes potential ‘green’ solutions. Research is being conducted into using a range of nature-based solutions to protect our coastlines. One such example is the use of mangrove forests. The mangroves naturally trap sediments, helping stabilise the coastline and preventing erosion from waves. The difficulty for engineers at this stage is to put numbers to these solutions.

Another potential solution is the construction of artificial reefs offshore. Hard surfaces are created to which algae and invertebrates can attach. These structures can be constructed using, for example, submerged rock berms, concrete units or even sunken ships. The raised level of the 'seabed' induces some of the incoming waves to break, providing protection to the coastline.

However, there is no 'one-size-fits-all' solution for sea-defence structures. Each project and location is different. Whatever the future holds, we will still need to assess the suitability of a range of structures as possible solutions before focusing on the optimal solution. Different roleplayers have different requirements, and legislation will keep on changing.

We all have a responsibility to consider greener solutions. In some instances, the solution may be to retreat, giving the coastline back to nature. In other instances, this may not be possible, and our fight with the sea will continue to protect existing infrastructure, especially in built-up areas with established infrastructure.

Developing greener solutions

This is where vertical structures will remain relevant. Coastlines are dynamic by nature, even with the changes we make to them. We have reclaimed land and moved coastlines seaward to provide more space for our cities. We enjoy living near the sea, with some older residential developments positioned closer to the sea than they should be. This also applies to industrial and transport infrastructure.

On Greenfield sites, we may have a larger range of suitable 'green' solutions as options. When it comes to built-up and established cities and infrastructure on the coastline, traditional vertical structures may still be the best solution. Existing seawall structures are often adapted to accommodate the effects of global warming.

One such example is the Dawlish sea wall in England. Providing protection to a railway line, this wall was severely damaged in a storm, resulting in damage to the railway line and other infrastructure. A new vertical concrete sea wall was constructed in front of the existing wall. The level of the wall was raised, and the wall was fitted with a wave-return coping structure.

Moving all the existing infrastructure landwards to accommodate a softer solution would not have been the answer in this case. This is often the reality. This project also demonstrates how an existing seawall structure can be redesigned and reconstructed in almost the same location without surrendering infrastructure and property.

There are developments such as making traditional concrete sea walls more environment-friendly. Vertical concrete sea walls can be fitted with ecological enhancement features such as textured panels that encourage the growth of marine organisms, depending on where they are located.

Research into modifying the concrete composition to reduce its carbon footprint is ongoing. Natural solutions may also complement more traditional structures. They may be just what is needed to lengthen the life of older structures when used in combination. Thus vertical seawall structures will still be relevant for a long time, possibly developing into greener solutions.