Nature based solutions for sediment starved deltas: the Ebro case in the Spanish Mediterranean coast

Abstract

Deltas in river regulated basins have become coastal vulnerability hotspots, for which traditional coastal engineering does not provide acceptable risk reductions. This is well illustrated by the Ebro delta (W Mediterranean) whose vulnerability is projected to increase under future climates. We review nearshore transport in an apparently pristine coast under a sedimentary deficit due to river regulation. Next we present the monitoring and maintenance needed for a successful river connectivity that enhances liquid/solid discharges into the delta. In the following section we address NbS coastal sand nourishments, based on geo- and bio-diversity as NbS blocks to achieve a resilient coastal restoration. In the final section we present a Coastal Restoration platform concept, based on a living lab and aiming to a coastal restoration contract for long term commitment to NbS.