Ecosystem Engineers

Nature conservation and coastal defence

Salt marshes and tidal flats, characteristic of the Dutch coast. We find mussel and seagrass beds, an important habitat for extraordinary plants and animals. Because of human activity, the tidal flats and salt marshes have come under pressure. This has led to the disappearance of many of the characteristic tidal flat ecosystems, with dramatic implications for biodiversity. The loss of the tidal ecosystems is also important for humans. Tidal flats and salt marshes are an important buffer against the destructive effects of wave action.

To solve this problem, a consortium of Bureau Waardenburg, the University of Groningen and the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research has investigated whether a new biodegradable material called 'BESE' can be used to help restore the intertidal ecosystems.