The coastal zone is characterized by complex hydrodynamic processes which set sediment into motion. Currents and mean wave-induced motions transport the sediment around causing morphodynamic changes in the surf and swash zones. Apart from environmental factors, anthropogenic activities, such as urbanization and obstruction of natural fresh water flows, influence the evolution of the coastal zone, as well. One noteworthy example of such dynamic behaviour is the worldwide coastal erosion problem.
Typically, coastal engineers are required to predict the evolution of the beach and design structures to protect the shores from erosion or severe wave action. A selection of such structures from completed projects will be presented during this talk. Design and construction characteristics from these case studies will be briefly discussed along with the major challenges for each one. The response of the coastal system to the realized works will also be shown, where relevant.