Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Coastal Ecosystem Resilience Enhancement: Towards a Conceptual Model for Marine Pollution Mitigation

Abstract

Coastal ecosystems, including mangroves, salt marshes, and coral reefs, perform vital functions such as flood mitigation, erosion prevention, habitat conservation, and carbon sequestration. However, these ecosystems are encountering unparalleled challenges primarily due to climate change and anthropogenic activities contributing to marine pollution, jeopardizing ecosystem integrity. The deterioration and destruction of coastal habitats undermine the natural resilience of these regions. Thus, implementing meticulously designed Nature-based Solutions (NbS) can facilitate the restoration and rehabilitation of compromised coastal ecosystems, mitigate marine pollution, and enhance economic and societal advantages cost-effectively and sustainably. Examples encompass the rehabilitation of essential habitats, including seagrass and salt marshes, to safeguard biodiversity and facilitate carbon sequestration, as well as the management of coastal habitats to conserve biodiversity and shield populations from extreme weather phenomena. This research seeks to perform a thorough evaluation of the efficacy and potential of Nature-based Solutions (NbS), including habitat restoration, green infrastructure, and ecological engineering, in mitigating pollution effects and fostering long-term environmental sustainability, while also formulating a conceptual model for their effective application. The research will enhance the understanding of coastal resilience and offer pragmatic recommendations for coastal management and planning.

 

Keywords: coastal pollution, habitat sensitivity, habitat degradation, ecosystem services, MarESA framework, nature-based solutions, DPSIR, Ria Formosa.