Designing and building dynamic coasts and wetlands: developing a no net loss approach

A basic definition of the no net loss concept is given by the US Wetlands Action Plan: wetland losses must be offset by wetland gains. The Habitats Directive aims to establish a network of protected sites in order to maintain or restore the favourable conservation status of listed habitats and species. Within these sites, we must take steps to avoid the deterioration of natural habitats and the habitats of species. However, many protected sites include dynamic coastal and wetland habitats, which under natural circumstances are subject to sometimes large changes in the nature, quality and extent of habitat, often over short timescales. This paper explores what needs to be considered if a no net loss policy is to be implemented.