Sediment research in estuaries and the coastal zone

Abstract

Abstract: Sediment is the basic material from which estuaries, coastal lagoons and beach and barrier coasts are made. These are among the most dynamic landforms on earth. Human activity has left its mark on coastal systems in many ways and, especially since the industrial revolution, also on the sediment. Sediment management becomes imperative when sediment is too much, too little or too contaminated, and measures have to be taken to address economic, social and environmental concerns. In a context of weak economic growth and decreasing public resources across much of Europe, to sustainably manage estuarine and coastal sediment, innovative and cost-efficient approaches and solutions are needed. However, there is no innovation without research.