AIC Arquitetura & Urbanismo contracted ABPmer to evaluate a proposed coastal defence scheme for a section of coast in Bahia State, Brazil fronting a hotel.

The local coastline is experiencing erosion along a ‘sand cliff’ and beach. Coastal management measures are therefore required to protect the hinterland infrastructure from any erosion threat.

Our first step in deciding which type of scheme is appropriate is to understand the processes operating along a frontage. Of primary interest to this area was understanding the inshore wave and water level conditions occurring now and in the past, particularly during extreme events. Using this knowledge, we could appraise the coastal defence proposed and if necessary suggest modifications or an alternative option.