- Monitor and better understand the composition of existing coastal habitats along the North East coast;
- Improve understanding about the ways in which coastal habitats (including seagrass meadows, kelp beds and native oyster reefs) can be restored; and
- Learn lessons about the benefits (‘Ecosystem Services’) these habitats provide to society and, especially, to communities in the North East.
Our coastline is one of our greatest treasures but, over the years, important natural habitats have been lost. Many areas are threatened by flooding, erosion and storms and climate change will only make this worse. If we do nothing, habitats, man-made coastal defences and communities could all suffer. That’s why we’re proud to have secured this funding for Stronger Shores, which will allow us to turn to the hidden habitats below the waves for an affordable, long-term solution.
We are very excited to be working with Stronger Shores to develop the practical application of the Natural Capital Approach. Over many years, we have shown that nature has the potential to be a powerful tool in helping us fight pressing challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss. The findings from this research will deliver progress in enabling us to understand the role of natural and restored kelp, seagrass and oyster beds in protecting our coasts, and boosting biodiversity.
Dr Sian Rees
Associate Head of School - Research