Efforts underway to combat severe erosion threatening Tunisia’s beaches

(MENAFN) In the seaside town of Hammamet, Tunisia, efforts are underway to combat the severe erosion that has been threatening its popular beaches. Bulldozers are working tirelessly to move sand from a nearby desert onto Yasmine Beach, a well-known and cherished location that represents the essence of Hammamet. Environmentalist Chiheb Ben Fredj reflects on the beach’s significance, noting its enduring image in the collective memory of the town’s residents since childhood.

Hammamet, situated approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) east of the Tunisian capital, Tunis, has witnessed substantial loss of its sandy shores in recent years due to erosion. This problem is not unique to Hammamet but is part of a broader issue affecting many coastal areas in North Africa. The natural dynamics of coastlines involve a constant movement of sediment, with the sea both eroding and depositing material along the shore.

However, human activities have significantly accelerated this natural process. Coastal property development, offshore sand mining, and the construction of coastal defenses have disrupted the natural flow of sediment, often leading to the depletion of beach material in affected areas. Additionally, climate change has exacerbated the problem. Rising temperatures and increasing sea levels, which have been rising more rapidly in the Mediterranean over the past two decades compared to the 20th century, contribute to the accelerated erosion of coastlines.

As the Mediterranean region faces these challenges, the restoration work in Hammamet represents a critical effort to preserve its iconic beaches and safeguard the local environment and tourism industry. The restoration aims to return the beach to its former condition, preserving its status as a central feature of Hammamet's coastal landscape.

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