Box 9R Sand dunes

Sand dunes, Doñana National Park, Spain

Source: H Jungius, WWF


A survey carried out by the European Union for Coastal Conservation in 1992 has produced some alarming statistics concerning the loss of European sand dunes (see Table 9.6). There are between 400 000 and 428 000 ha of dunelands remaining on Atlantic coasts, of which approximately 40 per cent are afforested. Around a third of the 40 per cent decline in coverage since 1900 has occurred in the last three decades, the principal cause being deliberate afforestation using exotic species. A further 5 per cent loss is predicted over the next two decades, primarily through development of recreational facilities such as golf courses. Other specific problems include lowering of the water table through pumping, and construction of buildings (Salman and Strating, 1992).

A further decline of 10 to 15 per cent through recreational developments is expected over the next two decades. Sandy beaches are the main attraction for many of the 100 million tourists who visit the Mediterranean each year. Unfortunately the peak of the tourist season coincides with the nesting season for the vulnerable loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) and the endangered green turtle (Chelonia mydas). Lara-Toxeftas in Greece is one of the most important beaches for turtles, providing nesting for some 200 loggerhead and 100 green turtles. Over 4000 hatchlings emerge each year from the nests of this monitored site.

Trampling by visitors may have significant local impacts, but restoration is possible by enclosure and fixation, where damage is moderate. The decline in Mediterranean dunes has been severe, with the present coverage of 30 000 to 36 000 ha representing an estimated 71 per cent loss since 1900, resulting mainly from construction of tourist facilities.