Climate change strategy - no more building by the coasts

There is a recognition that economic development over the past few decades has led to coasts being threatened by urban pressure as well as to increased vulnerability because of climate change. The report, which is to be published on the Official Bulletin, refers to excessive urban development and infrastructure, to the destruction of dunes, to the drying-out of wetlands and lagoons, to increased erosion and to alteration of the coastline.

There are to be guidelines that cover the coastal public domain, which is the responsibility of the national government via the Costas Authority. They will also be for adoption by regional governments.

Iñigo Losada, research director at the institute, says that the document setting out the strategy explains the serious implications of rising sea levels and temperatures for coastal ecosystems. In addition, there will be the impact of fiercer storms as well as a deficit in the availability of fresh water.