What is being done to protect coastal wildlife and habitats?
The EA have a legal duty to protect and enhance the natural environment through our operations. The management of important nature conservation sites that are at risk of coastal erosion or flooding is considered in Coastal Habitat Management Plans (CHaMPs). Relocating natural habitats Some forms of sea defence can have a negative impact on the coastal environment. ‘Coastal squeeze’ occurs when natural habitats become caught between sea defences and the sea. This can result in the loss of salt marshes, mudflats and beaches. As these are important feeding grounds for birds and other wildlife, their loss can have serious environmental consequences. Inter-tidal habitats are also important for local commercial fisheries, as they provide important nursery areas. Where natural habitats are unavoidably lost, we seek to replace them elsewhere through regional ‘habitat creation programmes’. Working with others We use a wealth of expertise to carefully assess environmental impact. We work at a lo