Researchers from CESAM – Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies recently contributed to a national TV report on environmental risks associated with coastal erosion in São Pedro de Maceda, in the municipality of Ovar, Portugal.

Broadcast on Primeiro Jornal, the report examined concerns surrounding a former landfill located close to the shoreline. Accelerated coastal retreat raises the risk of waste exposure and potential marine environmental contamination.

During the report, CESAM Director Amadeu Soares and researcher Paulo Baganha highlighted the environmental implications of ongoing shoreline erosion and the need for monitoring and preventive action. Recent storms have accelerated coastal retreat by around 20 metres between October and February, exceeding the average recorded over the past decade.

Although the landfill, which operated from 1973 to 1999, has been sealed, uncertainties remain regarding its contents and the potential impacts if erosion continues. CESAM researchers stress the importance of long-term planning, mitigation measures such as beach nourishment, and continuous monitoring of shoreline evolution to reduce risks to marine ecosystems, coastal environments and public health.

This contribution reinforces the importance of integrating scientific knowledge into coastal management and climate adaptation strategies.

Read more: here.

Photo Credit: CESAM