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As climate change accelerates and sea levels rise, coastal regions face unprecedented threats. Traditional methods of coastal protection are evolving to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Enter the dune-dike solution: a hybrid, nature-based approach that combines natural dunes with man-made dikes to offer resilient, adaptable, and sustainable coastal protection. This method is gaining traction across Europe where the need for long-term, adaptable coastal defense strategies is paramount. DuneFront, a newly launched European research project, is leading the way to expand the use of nature-based coastal protection across Europe and beyond.

Aerial view on the dune-dike system at Raversijde (Belgium) (Photo: Glenn Strypsteen) 

Rethinking coastal protection in the age of climate change
Traditional coastal protection systems — such as concrete seawalls and dikes — are increasingly proving inadequate against the growing threat posed by climate change. Rising sea levels, more intense storms, and accelerated coastal erosion demand new, adaptive solutions. One such innovation is the dune-dike solution, a hybrid system that pairs the natural buffering capacity of sand dunes with the strength of engineered dikes.

This approach offers an adaptable and sustainable means of coastal protection, allowing nature to play a key role in shielding coastlines from extreme weather while also supporting local ecosystems. Across Europe, regions vulnerable to the impacts of sea-level rise are adopting these nature-based solutions, recognizing that they offer long-term protection with fewer environmental downsides than traditional hard infrastructure.

How do dune-dike solutions work?
The principle behind dune-dike systems is simple yet effective. Natural dunes act as the first line of defense, absorbing the energy from storm surges and high water levels and waves. Behind these dunes, already existing engineered dikes provide additional protection, ensuring that even during extreme weather events, inland areas remain safe. This two-tiered approach maximizes resilience, leveraging the strengths of both nature and human engineering.

Moreover, these systems are designed to be self-sustaining. Dunes can develop when vegetation captures the wind-blown sands. This vegetation not only keeps the sand in the system by preventing erosion, but it also ensures an efficient, natural regeneration after storm surge impacts. Over time, these natural processes enhance the dunes' ability to protect the coast. This reduces the need for constant maintenance and repairs, unlike conventional dikes, which often require costly investments and upgrades as sea levels rise.

Expanding the use of dune-dike systems across Europe
While coastal nations like the Netherlands have long been pioneers in coastal defense, the dune-dike solution is now gaining traction in many parts of Europe. The Netherlands, but als countries like Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, France, and Portugal are exploring this hybrid approach, applying it to vulnerable coastal zones that are increasingly at risk from rising seas.

Environmental and economic benefits
One of the standout advantages of dune-dike systems is their ability to protect both people and nature. By preserving and enhancing natural landscapes, these solutions contribute to the restoration of highly threatened habitats and species, while maintaining and reinforcing the aesthetic and recreational value of coastlines. This is particularly important in tourist-dependent regions, where beaches and dunes are integral to the local economy.
In addition, the long-term economic benefits are significant. Traditional sea walls and concrete dikes require substantial investment for construction and ongoing maintenance. Dune-dike systems, in contrast, rely on natural processes to renew and stabilize themselves, making them possibly more cost-effective over time. This economic advantage is becoming increasingly attractive to policymakers across Europe, especially as governments face the challenge of financing large-scale climate adaptation projects.

Adapting to a future of rising seas
As climate models project a future of rising seas and more frequent storm events, European countries are looking for coastal protection systems that are not only robust but adaptable. The dune-dike solution provides a flexible response to an uncertain future. While dikes can be raised incrementally as needed, dunes offer a natural buffer that can evolve in tandem with changing environmental conditions.

This flexibility makes dune-dike systems an ideal choice for countries with long coastlines, where the scale and scope of protection require a solution that can be fine-tuned over decades. By working with nature, rather than against it, these nature-based systems are helping Europe stay ahead in the race to protect its shores from climate-related threats.

DuneFront: a European research project leading the way
One of the most exciting developments in the field of coastal protection is the launch of DuneFront, a collaborative European research project aimed at advancing the science and implementation of dune-dike solutions. Funded by the Horizon Europe program, DuneFront brings together experts from leading European research institutes. Together, they will test and refine these hybrid systems in real-world conditions.

DuneFront’s Project Leader, Prof. Dr. Dries Bonte (Ghent University, Belgium): “The project's goal is to develop new models and strategies for integrating natural and engineered measures, focusing on creating resilient coastlines that can adapt to sea-level rise while enhancing local biodiversity. By experimenting with innovative designs and materials, DuneFront hopes to expand the use of nature-based coastal protection across Europe and beyond.”

DuneFront gathers and evaluates data from 12 different existing dune-dike systems across six different countries. The project aims to provide valuable data and insights that inform national and regional policies, ensuring future coastal protection is both effective and sustainable.
 

A key factor in the success of dune-dike hybrids as Nature-Based Solutions is the role of vegetation, which helps trap sand, build dunes, and stabilize shorelines. Understanding plant-sediment interactions is a focus of the Biodiversity Functioning Team on the DuneFront project which includes researchers from Technische Universität Berlin, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Utrecht University, and Ghent University.

Coastal plants such as marram grass (Ammophila arenaria) and sand couch (Elymus farctus) have specialized architectural, morphological, and physiological traits that enable them to survive harsh conditions. These plants not only withstand strong winds, shifting sands, and salt exposure, but they also shape their environment. Above-ground structures (stems and leaves) intercept wind and trap sediment, while below-ground structures (roots and rhizomes) bind soil and decrease erosion. By studying these traits, we aim to quantify how vegetation influence to dune dynamics. 

Picture 1: Marram grass traping sand onto the dunes.

Our recent acitvity has focused on refining instrumentation techniques, developing sampling protocols, and selecting key traits and research parameters. Of particular interest is investigating the strength of above- and below-ground plant structures. Using a universal testing machine, we can determine the force that roots and stems can sustain. These measurements provide insight into how vegetation might withstand extreme wind or erosion conditions. 

Picture 2: Testing the strength of the roots and stems of dune plants.

Another technique we use to explore plant traits is scanning technology. Root scans reveal information about root length, diameter, volume and when paired with mass data, provide insights into plant resource allocation strategies and biomass distribution patterns. Using laser scanning techniques, we can analyze above-ground structures and their influence on sand capture. 

Picture 3: A laser scanner maps out the root system of the dunes. 

During the past winter months, we have made visits to several DuneFront demonstrators allowing us to observe wide variation in coastal habitats and differing environmental conditions. These observations have supported our preparations for fieldwork planned to take place during the growing season. In the coming spring and summer months, we will conduct our field campaigns in which we will collect vegetation samples, measure plant traits and gather environmental data. This work will span a portion of the European Atlantic coast with locations in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. 

The resulting data will help us to strengthen our understanding of the links between plant traits and ecosystem functions. This will support our goals at DuneFront to refine nature-based solutions for coastal protection and contribute to the long-term effectiveness and adaptability of dune-dike hybrids.
 

As part of the DuneFront project, researchers are exploring how innovative materials can enhance coastal protection while supporting marine life. One key focus is bioreceptive concrete—a special type of cement-based material designed to encourage plant and microorganism growth. By developing more eco-friendly construction materials, DuneFront is working towards coastal infrastructure that not only protects shorelines but also enhances biodiversity. This work exemplifies how interdisciplinary research can address global challenges while creating opportunities for ecological restoration and community engagement.

How DuneFront is contributing:

1.    Developing bioreceptive concrete: 
Scientists are testing different cement mixtures, such as bone ash, foamed concrete, and limestone-rich cement, to find the best balance between durability and ecological benefits. These materials aim to support vegetation while maintaining the strength needed for coastal defences.

2.    3D-printed designs for biodiversity
Advanced 3D printing technology allows researchers to create structures with specific textures, shapes, and porosity levels that promote biodiversity and bioreceptivity. This technique is also being used to design eco-friendly dikes that blend with the natural environment.

Picture 1:  Printing of cylinders (left) [1], and 3D printed elements with infill of self-compacting concrete (right) [2], in Magnel-Vandepitte Lab.

3.    Life cycle assessment:
To ensure sustainability, all materials undergo life cycle assessments to measure their long-term environmental footprint. The goal is to minimize negative impacts while maximizing the benefits for marine ecosystems.

Encouraging early results
Initial laboratory tests have shown promising signs regarding the bioreceptivity of the mixtures. Trials with marram grass (Ammophila arenaria), a common dune plant, have demonstrated successful germination in several concrete mixtures. These findings suggest that bioreceptive materials could help stabilise coastal dunes while enhancing local ecosystems.

Picture 2: Example of bioreceptive concrete samples with germinated Ammophila Arenaria.
 

What’s next?
The next step is real-world testing. Researchers will apply their lab findings in pilot projects, starting in De Panne, to assess how bioreceptive concrete performs in natural coastal conditions. Further improvements will also be made to increase durability while maintaining or even improving ecological benefits.

Stay tuned as DuneFront continues to shape the future of sustainable coastal protection!

Picture 3: Location in De Panne where the pilot project will be realised.

References :
[1]    M. K Mohan, “Towards sustainable concrete 3D printing for marine structural applications,” dissertation, Ghent University, 2023. Accessed: Feb. 10, 2025. [Online]. Available: http://hdl.handle.net/1854/LU-01GTE5YZBYMDQ21DM3E6JCGFH8

[2]    M. Bekaert, “Mechanical behavior and durable aspects of 3D printed concrete formwork,” dissertation, Ghent University, 2024. Accessed: Feb. 10, 2025. [Online]. Available: http://hdl.handle.net/1854/LU-01J0NQES17CTET4Z3G6A4J5PQ6

DuneFront is committed to enhance coastal protection and safety by optimizing hybrid solutions that combine natural elements (dunes) with engineered structures (dikes). These Dune-by-Dike Nature-based Solutions (DD-hybrid NbS) represent a new generation of sustainable, inclusive, and aesthetically integrated coastal defenses.

The project brings together scientists from various research fields, alongside businesses and government agencies, to develop a holistic approach to hybrid dune-dike solutions. As a first step, twelve demonstration sites across Europe will collect and evaluate key data and experiences. The insights gained will contribute to practical recommendations for designing and implementing future DD-hybrid NbS.

Co-creation for a stronger coastline in Belgium
In Belgium, a co-creation process has been launched by the Flemish agency for Maritime and Coastal Services (MDK) to engage a broad group of stakeholders in shaping the future of the dune foot in De Panne. This initiative aligns with a larger vision for the coastal zone extending to the French border. Beyond its role in coastal erosion protection, the dune foot also serves as a key recreational link between De Panne’s seawall and the Westerpunt. Strengthening pedestrian and cycling connections while preserving ecological integrity is a central goal of the project. To achieve this, Arcadis is supporting MDK with the co-creation process. 

Picture 1: Westerpunt De Panne (source: https://www.depanne.be/nl/vrije-tijd/cultuur/bezienswaardigheden/nieuw-uitkijkpunt-westerpunt)

Interactive workshops to shape a new dune-by-dike system
The co-creation process consists of three interactive workshops where stakeholders can exchange ideas about the design of the new dune-by-dike system in De Panne. These sessions explore the needs and priorities of different parties, identifying key focus areas for the project. Participants also discuss potential challenges and strategies to overcome them.
 

Picture 2: The co-creation workshop in De Panne with the relevant stakeholders (VLIZ, Coco Koedooder).

During these workshops, various dune-by-dike scenarios were presented, with different parameters and design options under consideration. Topics such as integrating recreation and tourism into the landscape were explored, including how walkers and cyclists can navigate the area. Participants had the opportunity to suggest modifications and improvements to the proposed designs.

Picture 3: Workshop participants outlining their wishes, concerns and hopes for the new dune-by-dike system in De Panne (VLIZ, Coco Koedooder).

Balancing uncertainties with a strategic vision
While some uncertainties remain, they do not prevent the project from moving forward. At this stage, a final decision on a single scenario is not required, but risk assessments and stakeholder needs are critical in shaping the preferred direction. By embracing a flexible and inclusive approach, the DuneFront project ensures that the future dune-by-dike will meet both coastal protection and community needs, paving the way for a more resilient and well-integrated coastline.
Stay tuned for updates as this innovative process unfolds!

As a partner, DuneFront participated in the NetworkNature Annual Conference 2024 in Brussels. NetworkNature is a collaborative platform driving the adoption of Nature-basedSolutions Solution (NbS) across policy, science, and business. This year’s conference focused on debunking myths surrounding ecosystem restoration and nature-based solutions (NbS).

The event featured insightful discussions on the critical role NbS can play in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable land management. Experts from across Europe challenged common misconceptions, demonstrating that NbS are not just environmental tools, but essential for social well-being and economic resilience. A major theme of the day was the idea that people and nature are not in conflict; rather, they can thrive together when we apply the right strategies.

In DuneFront, we are passionate about this approach. Through nature-based strategies, we demonstrate that local communities can benefit directly from restored ecosystems—economically, socially, and environmentally. The insights shared during the conference reinforced our belief that NbS are essential for building a sustainable future.

We look forward to continuing our work with NetworkNature, and we are excited to be part of a movement that is reshaping how people and nature coexist. Together, we are proving that restoring nature is not only possible, but it is also vital to creating a thriving, sustainable world.

Discover more about NetworkNature? Check out their website!

In the pursuit of sustainable coastal management, research teams from Ghent University—including Ir. Afshar Adeli, Dr. Vincent Gruwez, Prof. Peter Troch, and Prof. Dries Bonte—and from TU Delft— Prof. Bas Hofland and Prof. Marion Tissier—have recently published a landmark report as part of the DuneFront project. This report marks a significant step forward in advancing our understanding of dune-dike hybrid Nature-based Solutions (DD-hybrid NbS). These solutions aim to revolutionize coastal infrastructure by seamlessly integrating biodiversity with resilient designs, capable of addressing socio-economic and environmental challenges.

A Bold Vision for Europe’s Coasts

DuneFront is focused on better understanding the potential of DD-hybrid NbS to create robust, adaptable, and aesthetically appealing solutions for coastal protection. In addition to their environmental benefits, these systems are designed to protect densely populated European coasts while ensuring ecological richness and resilience in the face of climate change. 

The recently published report takes this vision a step further by studying existing hybrid solutions in action across four major European sea or ocean basins: the Mediterranean, Atlantic, North Sea, and Baltic. This comprehensive evaluation is crucial for identifying which design aspects are most effective in protecting coastlines and uncovering gaps in current methodologies.

A Pan-European Study of Hybrid Nature-Based Solutions

One of the key achievements of this report is its extensive documentation and comparison of DD-hybrid NbS design methods. The study covers 12 Demonstrators from six countries—Portugal, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and Sweden—each facing unique environmental challenges. Out of these, seven Demonstrators were selected for in-depth analysis based on their contribution to coastal protection: Dunkerque, Sainte-Marie La Mer, Living Lab Raversijde, Middelkerke, Katwijk, Sankt Peter-Ording, and Ystad.

These locations are diverse in geography and functionality, providing a wide array of data that is invaluable for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of current DD-hybrid NbS designs. By analysing the methodologies, stability measures, and maintenance practices in use, the research team is helping to establish a foundation for future, more refined approaches to coastal protection.

Key Insights and Knowledge Gaps

A major highlight of the report is its thorough comparison of various design methodologies. These range from basic, non-specific approaches to highly detailed and adaptive methods. The study emphasizes the importance of selecting design methods tailored to local conditions, and the need for standardized, well-developed models to ensure the effectiveness of these hybrid systems.

The findings also reveal significant differences in how these systems are monitored and maintained. Some Demonstrators rely on advanced technologies, such as Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) and LIDAR scanning, while others implement simpler techniques like beach nourishment and surveys. This spectrum of methods underscores the need for continuous innovation in monitoring technologies to optimise coastal protection solutions.

Crucially, the report identifies a critical knowledge gap: the lack of unified methodologies for designing dune and dike systems together. While current practices often treat dunes and dikes as separate entities, the team argues that integrated approaches are essential for maximizing the effectiveness of DD-hybrid NbS. Questions regarding dune erosion, adaptive measures, probabilistic design, and the spatial relationship between dunes and dikes remain unresolved. Addressing these issues will help transform these knowledge gaps into actionable strategies for future coastal defenses.

A Vision for the Future of Coastal Protection

The insights gathered from this report are poised to have a lasting impact on the development of sustainable coastal infrastructure across Europe. By addressing the identified knowledge gaps, the research team is helping to pave the way for more resilient, adaptive, and inclusive coastal management practices.

Ultimately, the findings from this research contribute not only to the academic understanding of DD-hybrid NbS but also to the practical tools and methods needed for effective coastal protection. As climate change continues to pose increasing risks to coastal regions, the work in DuneFront is essential for shaping the future of coastal defense—creating solutions that protect both people and the planet. 

Check out the full report here!

-- Summer 2024 --

Exploring nature-based solutions: The DuneFront project’s fieldwork campaign

The DuneFront project is at the forefront of demonstrating the power of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) to enhance biodiversity. By focusing on the restoration of vital ecosystems, such as blond dunes and embryonic dunes, the project aims to contribute significantly to the EU's biodiversity restoration policy. A key aspect of this initiative is improving connectivity within the Natura 2000 network, which is critical for sustaining Europe's natural heritage.

Over recent months, the DuneFront team has been hard at work, executing an extensive fieldwork campaign across all demonstrator sites. This campaign is essential to understanding how NbS can be harnessed to create and restore habitats, providing tangible benefits for biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Key components of the fieldwork

The fieldwork is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ecological processes at play in the DuneFront demonstrator sites. The team is focusing on several critical areas:

1. Vegetation transect measures and plant trait composition: By systematically measuring vegetation along transects, the team is assessing the diversity and functional traits of plant species. This data is crucial for understanding how different plant communities contribute to ecosystem health and resilience.

    

2. Aboveground food web sampling: Understanding the ecological functioning of dune ecosystems requires detailed knowledge of the food webs that support them. The team is collecting samples of aboveground organisms to analyze their roles within the ecosystem, offering insights into the interactions that sustain biodiversity.

    

3. Soil health: Soil biota are anticipated to control aboveground vegetation dynamics. To understand whether designed dunes also hold healthy soils, the team is developing eDNA techniques to map this important dark biodiversity across all demonstrators.

    

4. Microclimatic Monitoring: Climate plays a significant role in the health of dune ecosystems. Through continuous monitoring of temperature and aerial humidity, the team is gathering essential data on the microclimatic conditions that affect these habitats.

    

5. Characterization of Sea-Land Connectivity: The connection between the sea and land is a vital aspect of dune ecosystems. The team is characterizing this connectivity to understand how it influences the dynamics of dune habitats, particularly in the context of NbS interventions.

Comparative Analysis with Reference Sites

To provide a comprehensive evaluation, the measurements taken at the demonstrator sites are being contrasted with data from well-chosen reference sites. This comparison allows the team to identify not only the benefits of NbS for dune restoration but also the constraints and challenges they may face.

Looking Ahead: Digital Twins of Dune-Dike NbS

The collection of field data is just the first step to demonstrate whether these hybrid NbS deliver what they promise to biodiversity conservation. In the next step, remote sensing will be used to reconstruct the systems’ evolution with respect to morphology, habitat development and safety. How the created dunes in front of the dikes contribute to regional connectivity will be subsequently studied with novel modeling approaches. All the data will eventually be integrated into advanced mechanistic models. These models will help create digital twins of the dune-dike NbS, providing powerful tools for predicting and optimizing the outcomes of NbS interventions.

The DuneFront project is paving the way for innovative approaches to biodiversity restoration. Through rigorous fieldwork and cutting-edge digital tools, it is poised to make a significant impact on how we protect and restore Europe's natural landscapes.

-- 30th May 2024 --

PhD researcher Jens Figlus from the Texas A&M University (TAMU) was part of an exchange programme between TAMU and the University of Delft. As one of the TransAtlantic partners in this project, he was invited to the University of Ghent to present his work on Nature-based Solutions within coastal protection.

🧐 Curious about his presentation?

Find the slides of the seminar here: https://pdf.ac/2jWmYB 

 -- 27th May 2024 --

Within DuneFront, a PhD position is available (3 years, 65% TVL-E 13) at TU Berlin (Plant Ecology Lab, Institute of Ecology). Deadline for application is June 7th.

project DuneFront aims to develop new knowledge and tools to optimize dune-dike hybrids as a new generation of sustainable, aesthetic, nature-inclusive coastal protection. Within our multi-disciplinary project, your specific focus will be on biodiversity functioning and the quantification of biophysical feedbacks in sandy coastal dunes. Main topic is the assessment of plant traits and their link to sand accretion and erosion potential by field measurements, lab-, flume, and windtunnel experiments.

Requirements, specifications and contact point see below.

 -- 25th January 2024 --

On 16 January 2024, the ‘Rustpunt’ in Ghent served as a historic, green site to host the three-day kick-off meeting of the new project 'DuneFront'. This innovative project is funded through the European Commission's Horizon Europe Programme and coordinated by Ghent University.

The project aims to enhance coastal protection and safety by optimizing solutions that make use of a combination of natural elements (dunes) and man-made hard structures (seawalls). These so-called hybrid Dune-by-Dike Nature-based solutions (DD-hybrid NbS) will constitute the new generation of sustainable, inclusive, and aesthetic coastal protection.

Within this multidisciplinary project, scientists from various research disciplines, companies and public services join forces to get a holistic view on the DD-hybrid NbS.

In a first step, twelve demonstrator sites, spread across Europe, will pool and evaluate the necessary data input and experiences to make practical and usable recommendations for designing and installing dune-by-dike nature-based solutions in the future.

In a second step, the gathered multidisciplinary knowledge will be integrated into digital twins, which in turn will pilot the development of a Decision-Support-System, coastal and marine infrastructure Blueprints, and the installation of new prototypes along one of the most recreated coasts of Belgium. DuneFront will provide a wide range of stakeholders with design, installation, and market-ripe business plans for DD-hybrid NbS. Translation of new research and innovations into the DuneFront targeted actions will occur within a full co-creation-procedure.

The consortium brings together 17 partners from seven different countries, including universities (UGent, KULeuven, UPORTO, UBx, UPVD, ULCO, TU Delft, UU, TUB, LU, TAMU), research institutes (VLIZ, EVFH), dredging companies (DEME, Jan De Nul Group), knowledge institutes (Stichting Deltares) and agencies (MDK).