Nature-based solution for coastal erosion protection in the muddy coasts: Empirical perceptibility from the Upper Gulf of Thailand

Coastal erosion presents a significant challenge for muddy coasts worldwide. Aggravated by climate change and local factors, protecting against erosion has proven to be a complex task. The delicate sedimentary composition and the interplay of natural forces and human intervention render these muddy coasts particularly vulnerable. The choice between traditional engineering solutions and nature-based approaches is often dichotomous and entails risks for the coastline, ecology, livelihoods, and coastal management. Hence, comprehensive research on tangible, environment-friendly protection strategies with a holistic approach to muddy coastal contexts is scanty. This article aims to critically reveal the hegemonic situation around coastal erosion and protection challenges, and perceptible nature-based modalities for erosion protection in the distinctive and socio-ecologically contested atypical peri-urban muddy coastal context of the upper Gulf of Thailand. A mixed-methods approach has been applied to gain an in-depth understanding. Empirical research findings critically divulged that coastal erosion protection is extremely challenging due to the vulnerable situation espoused by the interplay of exogenous and endogenous factors in the community, feeble governance, and leadership crises. The muddy coasts require holistic considerations for a plausible and dynamic nature-based erosion protection modality that is environment-friendly, science-based, long-term, people-oriented, knowledge-driven, and based on collaborative adaptive coastal management approaches. Nature-based solutions are crucial to ensure coastal stability, management, and climate-resilient development in the fragile muddy coasts in Thailand and elsewhere in similar contexts.