Issues

The problems of beach erosion have at the same time economic implications (importance of tourism and resort areas, threats to infrastructure or home) and ecological importance (protection of natural heritage, ecosystem characteristics, …) the evaluation of which leads to the decision whether or not to treat a threatened beach.

Moreover, the choice of means to fight against erosion induces other issues and other economic and environmental questions : initial cost, maintenance cost, return on investment, sustainability of the process chosen, impact on economic activity and human impact on the landscape and natural heritage, impact on ecosystems, impact on coastal neighbour, ... 

In this context, the Ecoplage^® concept is part of a process that is both economic and ecological, based on 3 principles :

1. Facilitate natural processes

… help re-establish an equilibrium which has been disrupted (often by humans) by integrating with the forces of nature rather than trying to fight against them.

2. Maintain and enhance the landscape

… the beauty of the beach is a treasure that must be protected in two ways : it is part of the heritage of a town and region, and is main tourist attraction (and therefore economic).

3. Offer lasting protection

… which is to say provide an efficient, economic and ecologic solution over the long term.