C421: Building with Nature: the role of bio-physical linkages within coastal wetland restoration (Priority project with CASE partner)

This project will explore the linkages between the vegetation and sediment characteristics of coastal wetlands and the
critical thresholds that govern the provision of ecosystem services such as wave attenuation. Research objectives would
include: (i) exploring relationships between larger spatial vegetation configurations and extreme wave conditions using
data from the Hydrolab experiment; (ii) investigating smaller-scale (e.g. individual plant) relationships between
hydrodynamic conditions, sediment types (e.g. restored wetland and natural wetland) and vegetation in the Department
of Geography flume; (iii) calibrating this with information at wider spatial scales using field measurements and potentially
UAV or satellite imagery; (iv) using this information about scales and site-specific variables to produce useful output
information for practitioners and policy makers looking at coastal wetland restoration. Further details can be found in my
research proposal. The increasing understanding of the importance of coastal wetland systems and recognition of their
global degradation means that this project is highly relevant. I would relish the opportunity to develop the research skills
and knowledge about coastal processes that I have developed whilst studying for my MPhil, and use more data-based
and empirical approaches to understand more about the critical thresholds in the provision of natural flood defence by
restored coastal wetlands.