What is considered the key to almost all coastal restoration efforts?

The key to almost all coastal restoration efforts is sediment. Sediment plays a critical role in the formation and sustenance of coastal ecosystems. Coastal areas are dynamic, and their health is heavily dependent on the availability and movement of sediment, which supports the development of landforms such as deltas, marshes, and barrier islands.

When sediment from rivers and other sources is deposited in coastal regions, it contributes to land elevation, which is essential as sea levels rise. This deposition helps to combat erosion and provides a substrate for various plant and animal species to thrive. Additionally, sediment can trap nutrients and pollutants, thus enhancing water quality and promoting more diverse and robust habitats.

In contrast, while factors such as water quality, plant diversity, and wave energy are important in the context of coastal ecosystems, they often rely on the availability of sediment for their proper functioning and restoration. Sediment replenishment is often a primary focus of many restoration projects because without adequate sediment supply, the health of coastal environments can decline significantly.