Morris RL, Pomeroy AWM, Boxshall A, Dack, D, Dunlop A, Townsend M, Swearer SE (2024). Identifying and overcoming barriers to marine and coastal habitat restoration and nature-based solutions in Australia - A blueprint for overcoming barriers to the use of nature-based coastal protection in Australia. Report to the National Environmental Science Program. University of Tasmania.
Overview
The three levels of government (often the “clients”) and experts that include engineering consultants and non-governmental organisations (often the “designers”) are key partners and stakeholders in the management, design, and delivery of a coastal protection solution. National representatives (31 participants) from these stakeholder groups attended a two-day workshop in Melbourne, June 2023 on nature-based coastal protection. The aims of the workshop were to: (1) gain a better understanding of the barriers faced by multiple stakeholders involved in the implementation of nature-based coastal protection; and (2) identify tangible solutions to these barriers. We defined 19 barriers to nature-based coastal protection, but the primary ones that are experienced during the delivery of a project are a lack of: education and awareness; community support; necessary expertise and technical guidance; and uncertainty around: the risk reduction that can be achieved; planning and regulatory processes; and ownership of the structure. Two overarching barriers are government support and the availability of funding. We identified both immediate actions and long-term solutions for enabling nature-based coastal protection in response to each of the primary barriers. Our next research step beyond this project is a review of the solutions proposed by the relevant organisations that can take responsibility for moving them forward.
