Beach Erosion

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This photo shows the effects of coastal erosion at Għajn Tuffieħa. Erosion occurred rapidly here recently due to human intervention, including deforestation. To counteract the effects of coastal erosion, more vegetation was grown at Għajn Tuffieħa in the 1960s. One can also note the man-made staircase constructed directly on the sand dune and also two horrendous structures at the back. In some coastal areas, the sandy terrain is eroded and disappears over time. This occurs when sand is lost at a faster rate than it is replaced. Sand is lost when sediment and sand grains are blown or carried away by strong winds, waves and stone from the coast. Plants and scrub vegetation hold the sand particles in place. Lack of sand dunes therefore increases beach erosion. Sand is added to the beach by soil which crumbles and is carried by the wind and deposited on the coast.