How do sea walls protect coastal areas?

Sea walls protect coastal areas by absorbing and deflecting the energy of incoming waves, preventing erosion and flooding.

Sea walls are structures built parallel to the coastline, usually made from concrete, stone, or other sturdy materials. Their primary function is to act as a barrier between the sea and the land, absorbing the energy of waves and reducing their impact on the shore. By doing so, they help to prevent coastal erosion, which is the gradual wearing away of land by the sea. This is particularly important in areas where valuable land, infrastructure, or habitats are at risk.

The design of sea walls can vary, but they often have a curved or sloped face to help deflect the energy of the waves upwards and back towards the sea. This reduces the force of the waves hitting the shore, minimising the amount of erosion that occurs. Some sea walls also have features like steps or ridges to further dissipate wave energy.

In addition to protecting against erosion, sea walls can also help to prevent coastal flooding. During storms or high tides, waves can be much larger and more powerful, posing a significant risk to coastal areas. Sea walls act as a physical barrier, preventing these waves from reaching inland areas and causing flooding. This is especially important in low-lying areas where even a small amount of flooding can have serious consequences.

However, while sea walls are effective at protecting specific areas, they can also have some drawbacks. For example, they can be expensive to build and maintain. Additionally, by preventing natural erosion, they can sometimes lead to increased erosion in other areas, as the energy of the waves is redirected. Despite these challenges, sea walls remain a crucial tool in coastal management, helping to protect communities and ecosystems from the powerful forces of the sea.