Physical alteration |
|
|
Degradation of the marine environment by alteration of physical habitats stems from a variety of human motives and activities. Coastal development often entails dredging up of bottom sediments for ports or to create new land surfaces; sand mining, construction of jetties and beach "improvements" to attract tourists alters wave action and destabilizes the shoreline; aquaculture development can mean wholesale cutting of mangrove forests and conversion of natural habitat and the subsequent loss of important fisheries. Two major effects of these activities are erosion and sedimentation. Shoreline alterations interfere with normal sediment transport, leading to severe erosion of beaches. Excessive sedimentation can destroy entire benthic habitats such as seagrass beds, and kill corals and other marine invertebrates – particular the delicate filter feeders. Many of the Regional Seas programmes address these problems in their Action Plan activities related to integrated coastal zone management and environmentally sound tourism. Read more on the FAO website:
|
