Examine, with reference to one of the following, how human activities can impact on surface processes: - Mass movement processes - River processes - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2009

In Ireland, areas like Donegal have experienced increased coastal erosion due to the construction of sea walls and removal of vegetation, which strips the coast of natural protection.

These activities alter surface processes by altering wave energy and sediment flow, exacerbating erosion and leading to habitat loss.

Urbanization along coastlines often results in hard engineering solutions that change natural coastal dynamics. For instance, the construction of breakwaters can reinforce certain areas while increasing erosion in others, a phenomenon observed in multiple coastal communities of Ireland.

Moreover, the removal of mangroves for development purposes increases vulnerability to storm surges and flooding. Erosion is not merely a loss of land; it significantly impacts local ecosystems, fisheries, and tourism, which are all crucial to the coastal economy.

Incorporating sustainable practices, such as managed retreat and the restoration of natural barriers, can mitigate these effects. Studies show that restoring coastal vegetation can enhance sediment retention and reduce erosion, showcasing a more harmonious interaction between human activity and natural processes. Recognizing the interconnectedness of human impact and surface processes is vital as we strategize for coastal resilience against climate change.