Sustainable coastal management and climate adaptation examined in new book

(Phys.org)—Sustainable management of Australia's much-loved coast is complex and challenging. Much is already known about coastal environments, but to date, coastal management has had limited success; in some cases management decisions have made problems worse.

Many CSIRO researchers have contributed to a new book, Sustainable Coastal Management and Climate Adaptation: Global Lessons from Regional Approaches in Australia, being launched today at the Coast to Coast conference in Brisbane.  

Australia's coast is shaped by severe events such as cyclones and floods, and climate change is increasing their number and intensity. This book examines past, present and possible future coastal management and research, based on real cases.

CSIRO's Wealth from Oceans Flagship Acting Science Director, Dr Andreas Schiller, says that our coastal populations are growing, increasing social, environmental and economic vulnerability to these hazards.

"This book explores the evolution of coastal management in Australia and provides critical insights into contemporary experience and understanding," Dr Schiller said.

"It draws on contemporary theory and lessons from case examples to highlight the roles of research and community engagement in coastal management.

"The book concludes with a chapter of recommendations, which can help guide coastal management and research around the world."

The book is produced by the Coastal Collaboration Cluster, which includes researchers from CSIRO, Curtin University of Technology, Deakin University, Flinders University, the University of Adelaide, University of the Sunshine Coast, University of Tasmania and University of Wollongong. The Cluster encourages better collaboration between scientists and decision-makers, so that research outcomes can be more easily used in coastal-zone management.