coastal squeeze
"Coastal squeeze" describes the phenomenon where coastal habitats are trapped between rising sea levels and fixed land boundaries, leading to habitat loss.
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Definition
C1Environmental Science
(technical, academic)The loss of coastal habitats due to rising sea levels and immovable human-made structures preventing natural landward migration.
Example
- Coastal squeeze has significantly reduced the area of salt marshes in many regions.
- Efforts to combat coastal squeeze often involve creating buffer zones to allow for habitat migration.
B2Urban Planning
(technical)A situation where coastal settlements cannot expand because of the sea on one side and rural or protected areas on the other.
Example
- The town is experiencing coastal squeeze, limiting its growth potential.
- Urban planners must consider coastal squeeze when developing coastal areas.