Nature-based solutions for coastal restoration during urbanization: Implications of a case study along Chaoyang Port Coast, China

Abstract

In the Anthropocene, human activities have induced profound and irreversible alterations to the Earth system, with coastal erosion and inundation emerging as critical natural hazards that threaten human life and property. Adaptive responses traditionally rely on singular nature-based solutions (NbS), also known as “Living shorelines”—whether hard structures, soft engineering, or vegetation. However, instances of multiple NbS being employed together are seldom studied, particularly on morphologically complex coasts. This study examines China's governmental policy frameworks for coastal climate adaptation at the national, provincial and urban levels and presents an application of multiple NbS implementations at Chaoyang Port Coast, Weihai city, as a case study. Our findings demonstrate that integrated policies and urban development strategies effectively drive coastline protection while necessitating nature-based approaches. This study demonstrates that combined management measures—encompassing beach remediation, gabion seawalls, and coastal shelter belts—create a robust spatial ecological disaster mitigation system in complex and vulnerable coastal environments. We propose three critical recommendations for successful long-term coastal restoration: sustained political commitment, enhanced public participation in local economic growth, and the advancement of NbS technologies. Through an analysis of coastal management policies and practical NbS applications, this research not only highlights China's commitment to environmental governance but also provides a practical paradigm for shoreline management that is applicable to coastal cities in China and other coastal nations worldwide.