Nature-Based Coastal Adaptation: A Comparative Assessment to Inform Effective Implementation

Abstract

As coastal adaptation planning becomes the new normal, governments have increasingly shifted a significant portion of new infrastructure from hardened “gray” structures toward natural and “nature-based” solutions (NbS): restored or constructed ecosystems that, by enhancing or mimicking natural processes, mitigate coastal hazards while offering socioeconomic, environmental, and public health benefits. However, the use of NbS remains limited due to uncertainty over cost and performance, a fragmented regulatory landscape, inconsistent planning tools, and the context dependence of NbS design. This thesis aims to explore these diverse uncertainties in detail by shedding light on the key factors and processes that may pose critical barriers or drive success during the implementation of nature-based coastal adaptation (NBCA) projects. This study employs stakeholder interviews to explore and compare four NBCA case studies from design through implementation: Hunter’s Point South Park and West Pond in Queens, New York; Rose Larisa Park in East Providence, Rhode Island; and the Sand Motor in South Holland, the Netherlands. By identifying the common challenges, success drivers, and success metrics shared across these projects, this thesis hopes to provide useful early insights that help NBCA decision-makers thoughtfully define and measure success, anticipate key challenges, and take steps to overcome those challenges and achieve more successful implementation.