Abstract

Increasing frequency of extreme weather events, driven by climate change, coupled with growing population densities, have contributed to an increasing demand for coastal structures to protect and stabilize shorelines.

Concrete seawalls are a common category of coastal protection structures, designed with the primary objectives of absorbing wave action, preventing coastline erosion, and alleviating flooding. Much research has been carried out on improving concrete seawall performance.

This work is a review of the current state-of-the-art in concrete seawalls focusing on design aspects including wave loading and innovative seawall designs, ecological considerations, and durability performance.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1: Project Definition

A seawall is a structure built along the shoreline to protect coastal areas from the damaging effects of waves, tides, and storms. Seawalls are commonly made of concrete, stone, or other durable materials and are designed to withstand the force of the ocean.

The purpose of this project is to explore the effectiveness of seawalls as a coastal protection measure and to examine their impact on the environment and surrounding communities.

The findings of this project will be useful for policymakers, coastal managers, and communities that are considering implementing seawalls or other coastal protection measures. The project will provide insight into the costs and benefits of seawalls, as well as the potential environmental and social impacts. Ultimately, the project will contribute to a better understanding of how to manage coastal areas in a way that balances the need for protection with the need to preserve natural ecosystems and support local communities.

1.2: Problem Statement

Coastal erosion and flooding caused by rising sea levels and more frequent and severe storms pose a significant threat to coastal communities worldwide. Seawalls have been widely implemented as a coastal protection measure to mitigate these risks. However, the effectiveness of seawalls in protecting coastal areas is still a topic of debate, and their environmental and social impacts are not well understood.

seawalls are frequently implemented as a coastal protection measure, their effectiveness and impact on the environment and communities are not well understood. There is a need to evaluate the effectiveness of seawalls in protecting coastal areas, as well as their potential environmental and social impacts. This will help policymakers, coastal managers, and communities to make informed decisions about coastal protection measures that balance the need for protection with the need to preserve natural ecosystems and support local communities.

1.3: Objectives

The primary objective of seawalls is to protect coastal areas from the damaging effects of waves, tides, and storms. Seawalls are designed to act as a barrier between the ocean and the land, reducing the impact of waves and protecting infrastructure and communities from flooding and erosion.

In addition to their primary objective of coastal protection, seawalls may also have secondary objectives, such as:

Providing recreational opportunities: Seawalls can create a flat surface along the coast, providing a space for walking, cycling, and other recreational activities.

Supporting ecosystems: Seawalls can provide habitat for marine and bird species, and support the growth of intertidal plants and animals.

Enhancing aesthetic appeal: Seawalls can be designed to enhance the visual appeal of coastal areas and provide a sense of place for local communities.

However, it is important to note that these secondary objectives are not the primary purpose of seawalls. Seawalls are primarily designed to protect coastal areas from erosion and flooding, and any secondary objectives should be considered in the context of this primary objective.

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