The
REAP Report: SAVE OUR SHORES
A
beach is continuously changing - from day to day, month to month
and year to year - as the natural forces of wind and water meet
the land. These changes, which have been taking place for millions
of years, are linked to variations in wind, waves, currents
and sea level height.
But
it is not just natural forces that change the beach, humans
have a big role to play in this process as well, through mining
stones and sand from the beaches, polluting and damaging coral
reefs, and constructing buildings and walls too close to the
sea.
Changes
in the beaches affect everyone. The coast is a place we are
all attracted to for recreation, sports and simple enjoyment.
This constantly changing and hazard-prone coastal environment
is also where the greatest financial investment is concentrated,
as tourism properties and establishments continue to be attracted
towards the shores. Tourism is a driving force in the country's
economy so the state of our beaches is of major importance.
Natural
Forces:
·
Cyclones and tropical storms, cause dramatic beach changes usually
resulting in serious beach erosion.
·
High waves and seas resulting from storms.
·
Sea-level rise, which is a long-term factor, taking place very
slowly over decades causes shorelines to retreat inland.
Human
Forces:
