Taking a step back - sea level rise and land management

Malindi Watamu Biosphere Reserve in Kenya and North Devon's Biosphere Reserve. What could they possibly have in common? Well, despite being thousands of kilometres apart and having very different climates, their coastlines are both in the frontline of dealing with sea level rise.

• Taking a step back - UNESCO World of Science report on the shared challenges of coastal management at Malindi-Watamu and Northern Devon's Biosphere Reserves.
• The Taw-Torridge Estuaries - Geomorphology and management. Prof. John Pethick, 2007. Report to Taw-Torridge Estuary Officers Group

 

People replanting mangroves watched by TV crew - Malindi Watamu

Malindi Watamu's coastline is dotted with coral reefs, sandy beaches and mangroves whilst in northern Devon there are marshlands, dunes and popular surfing beaches. Sea-level rise and erosion are eating into both coastlines, threatening the economy and people's livelihoods. The wildlife habitats and beaches that draw in tourists are in many cases also threatened by unsustainable development.

• UNESCO World of Science Vol. 7, No. 4 October-December 2009
• Our twin - Malindi Watamu Biosphere Reserve

Management of Taw Torridge Estuary is affected not just by climate change and sea level rise but by a variety of other factors such as wildlife and landscape considerations and its use for purposes as diverse as watersports, fishing and artistic inspiration. The Taw Torridge Estuary Forum brings partners together to resolve conflict and build management consensus and is a wonderful source of information.