The use of nature-based solutions (NbS) for coastal restoration actions and biodiversity protection: the A-AAgora project for Ireland.

Nature-based solutions (NbS) at the coast are, by definition, methods developed to work with nature to sustainably protect, restore and/or manage the shore. They can be classified into 4 main categories such as fully natural solutions, managed natural solutions, hybrid solutions and ‘green’ engineering solutions. As part of the EU Mission: ‘Restore our ocean and waters by 2030’, the Horizon Europe-funded Atlantic-Arctic Agora (A-AAgora) project identifies innovative solutions, including NbS, to co-develop coastal restoration actions in association with nature and people, throughout 3 demonstration areas. In this context, Demo Ireland locally adapted the ‘living lab’ approach via community-led actions undertaken at Harper’s Island, Co. Cork. Managed and hybrid NbS, for instance livestock grazing, control of invasive species (Spartina), development of pollinator areas, etc…, were successfully tested, supporting coastal wetland restoration and significantly enhancing local biodiversity. NbS deployed by communities at Harper’s Island, with the support of Cork County Council, were then described and reported, allowing their replication to the whole island of Ireland, and overseas. Moreover, additional sites facing coastal erosion and tidal flooding issues were selected and monitored along the Co. Cork coastline. Preliminary results allowed us to identify the main coastal challenges for each site in association with local geomorphological patterns and hydrodynamics, in a context of climate change. The next step for the A-AAgora project in Ireland is to identify suitable NbS as sustainable solutions and long-term management actions, to tackle coastal challenges in those areas. Moreover, this ongoing work is carried-out with the collaboration of multiple stakeholders, such as scientists, decision makers and communities. While these methods have been developed at local scales in the south of Ireland, they can be reproduced and upscaled in other areas, further raising global awareness about coastal adaptation and coastal sustainable solutions/managements.