Environment Agency - Home

What are we doing to protect coastal wildlife and habitats?

We have a legal duty to protect and enhance the natural environment through our operations.  The management of important nature conservation sites that are at risk of coastal erosion or flooding is considered in Coastal Habitat Management Plans (CHaMPs).

Relocating natural habitats

Some forms of sea defence can have a negative impact on the coastal environment.  'Coastal squeeze' occurs when coastal habitats like salt marsh, mudflats or beaches become caught between sea defences and rising sea levels.  This can result in the gradual loss of these habitats - which has already been happening for decades.  As these are important feeding grounds for birds and other wildlife, it can have serious environmental consequences.  Inter-tidal habitats are also important for local commercial fisheries, as they provide important nursery areas.

Where natural habitats are unavoidably lost, we seek to replace them elsewhere through regional 'habitat creation programmes'.

Working with others

We use a wealth of expertise to carefully assess environmental impact. We work at a local and national level with Natural England, the government agency responsible for promoting the conservation of England's wildlife and natural features.  We also work closely with the many organisations that make up the UK Biodiversity Partnership, who are actively involved in conservation work.

Our work allows these habitats to adapt, creating a richer coastal environment for people and nature. 

For information on visiting the coast and how you can contribute to a healthy coastal environment, see our Outdoor recreation pages.