Sand dunes are among the most widespread ecosystems along the European coastlines. The largest systems occur along river delta’s and other sedimentary coasts, but they are also found along rocky coasts in most countries (EUCC 1998). They support a large number of natural habitats and in NW-Europe dunes can be extremely rich in species. The total area in Western and Central Europe amounts over 5300 km², which is around 75% of the original area a century ago. However, only 3200 km² remained in its intact natural state (45%). In the Mediterranean only 25% remained intact.
Over the last decades, every day app. 30 hectares of dunes and beaches have disappeared, due to a variety of developments including:

• tourism facilities and related infrastructure, the most important factor since the 60-ies
• recreation, summer houses and golf courses, especially since the 70-ies.

In NW-Europe the impacts of sand stabilization and afforestation have become less intense since the 80-ies.

In the last five years dune managers (especially in NW-Europe and Spain) have initiated interesting restoration projects. The restoration capacity of dunes appears to be considerable due to their dynamic character. Removal of forests, re-establishing dynamic dune formations and reversing pollution trends are amongst the restoration measures which are being taken.

Table 1. Indicative loss and decline of coastal dune areas since 1900 in Western and Central European countries. For most countries figures represent mean values derived from literature and expert opinions; in reality these figures may be 10% more or less.
 
 

Countries with Coastal dune area under 90 km²

 
 

Countries with Coastal dune area above 90 km²
 
 

© EUCC - The Coastal Union

Published in ECNC Facts + Figures 1998-1999, Nov. 1998