Coastal dunes : form & process : geomorphology, ecology and planning & management for conservation

Abstract

Sand dune systems are landforms which form part of a larger system - the coastal zone. Their formation is the result of complex geomorphological processes involving aeolian sand transport and deposition. In addition vegetation also plays an important role in coastal dune formation. Landscape change through anthropogenic influence has largely contributed towards the decline of sand dune habitats. Aeolian development is dependent on a number of elements, some of which may not occur in the dunes' immediate vicinity - fluvial (sediment supply) sources are a case in point. For this reason dunes are also prone to degradation from causes which take place further afield. In the Maltese Islands, sand dunes are regarded among the rarest habitat-types. With a view to identifying key problems, defining priority actions, and suggesting an effective implementation plan for their conservation, two types of surveys were undertaken. The first consisted of a stocktaking exercise aimed at assessing the status of local dunes and identifying environmental planning and management priorities. A total of seventeen sites, previously known to have supported coastal dune systems, were visited. Of these, nine sites were found to still support sand dune ecosystems or their remnants, although the majority were degraded. The rest of the sites had little or no trace of dunal elements. Only two quasi-intact dune systems, with a sustained sediment supply and a flourishing dune-type vegetation, were identified - Ramla tal-Mixquqa in Malta and Ramla I-Hamra in Gozo. The second survey consists of a series of interviews with key stakeholders. The sites selected as representative examples of coastal dunes were Ghadira (Malta) and Ramla l-Hamra (Gozo). Both dune sites occur within recreational localities and are, in this respect, prime examples of land-use conflict. The study identified a number of key elements which clearly indicate an urgent need for a coherent strategy, at the post-policy level, for endangered habitats such as coastal dunes. The proposed framework for action outlines the need for integrating nature conservation strategies with sustainable economic development. Furthermore, the decentralization of management systems, and grassroot involvement, together with multi-sectoral improvements and the incorporation of environmental education, are recognized as key components for enhanced responsiveness to environmental needs. The setting up of a semi-autonomous environment protection agency, whose functions would include the promotion of conservation standards based on internationally recognized criteria, is suggested. Its operating parameters are described in detail in a Management Plan which suggests that endangered habitats should not be protected m isolation, but rather form part of a cohesive national conservation area system.