Sandy Beaches as Endangered Ecosystems

Sandy beaches are the most abundant coastal environments worldwide, which have an undeniable and unique ecological value. Presently, they are amongst the most endangered ecosystems in the biosphere, mainly due to the influence of several human activities. In this book, renowned scientists from around the world describe key attributes of sandy beaches and highlight the problems which impact them. Specific tools encompassing the physical environment and the biota are pointed out, at different levels of ecological organization. The book also covers suitable management, conservation programmes and respective actions, where ecologic, economic and social dimensions are comprehensively integrated.

"Documenting beaches from Japan to South Africa, Brazil to Spain, Finland to Italy, and California, this text comprising 11 in-depth articles presents empirical evidence of the vulnerable and dynamic nature of sandy coastlines. Human activities compounded by climate change threaten the stability and very existence of beaches to the detriment of both terrestrial and marine life. This book represents a call to action for better strategies to manage, conserve, and restore beaches through scientific outreach and collective efforts that integrate economic, social, and ecological dimensions. Photographs, charts, graphs, and other visual material plus more than 900 cited references enhance the text."

? A. S. Ricker, Oberlin College, Choice, Feb 2023 Vol. 60