Shoretosea

Shoretosea is an emerging concept in coastal science and planning that seeks to connect nearshore and offshore processes to support ecological integrity, resilience, and sustainable use of coastal zones.

The name blends shore and sea to highlight the continuous, interacting systems that extend from tidal flats and beaches into shelf waters. It reflects multidisciplinary work spanning coastal ecology, hydrodynamics, geomorphology, fisheries science, and landscape planning. Proponents describe shoretosea as a framework for understanding and managing the coast as a single, interconnected system rather than as separate land and sea domains.

Key components include habitat restoration such as tidal marshes, mangroves, seagrass beds, oyster reefs, and kelp forests; sediment management and dune stabilization; and the creation or restoration of offshore structures that mimic natural reef or barrier systems. Monitoring, adaptive management, and data sharing among scientists and managers are integral aspects of the approach, supporting iterative learning and performance assessment.

Applications range from resilience planning and biodiversity corridors to fisheries support and climate-change adaptation. Projects are typically designed to improve habitat connectivity across the shore-sea continuum and to deliver co-benefits for coastal communities through ecosystem services such as flood mitigation, carbon sequestration, and tourism.

Reception is mixed; supporters view shoretosea as a framework for nature-based solutions that can reduce risk and support livelihoods, while critics warn of high costs, governance complexity, and uncertain timing of ecological responses. Ongoing research and pilot programs aim to clarify best practices and measurable outcomes.