Natural infrastructure to mitigate inundation and coastal degradation

Abstract

The ocean is life sustaining. But, it is also a mighty force which can pose great danger to those living along its coasts. As a means of protection, we’ve armored our coastlines with grey infrastructure. However, these structures are expensive to build and maintain, encourage further development in areas particularly susceptible to flooding and storm damage, and often fail. In order for coastal communities across the globe to survive in a climate-changed future, nature must be prioritized in our regulatory, financial, and social systems in ways which empower, encourage, and incentivize smart and necessary investments in natural infrastructure.