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Coastal processes is the collective term covering the action of natural physical, oceanographic and meteorological forces on the morphology, composition and stability of the shoreline and nearshore seabed.
Changes to the shoreline are driven by forces such as waves, tidal currents, and wind because they affect the rate, scale and direction of sediment transport.
Understanding the dynamic nature of the coast, and the rate and scale of shoreline evolution, is vital for sustainable shoreline management.
Monitoring coastal processes, and how these processes interact with defences and other shoreline structures is a key component in delivering integrated and effective management of the coastal zone.