Physical geography · Both
Coasts – Processes & Management
Coastal landscapes are shaped by waves, geology and sea-level change. Management decisions matter for Welsh seaside towns and habitats.
Processes and landforms
• Erosion: headlands, bays, caves, arches, stacks, stumps
• Transportation: longshore drift
• Deposition: beaches, spits, bars
Geology (hard/soft rock) strongly affects the rate and shape of erosion.
Management
**Hard:** sea walls, rock armour, groynes
**Soft:** beach nourishment, dune stabilisation, managed retreat
Conflicts arise between protecting property, cost, and the natural environment.
Practice questions
1. What is longshore drift?
2. Name two hard coastal defences.