Coastal erosion is one of the most pressing contemporary environmental challenges and is expected to intensify in the coming decades due to climate change and sea level rise. The ECO-BEACHTECH project addresses this challenge by promoting innovative, nature-based and environmentally friendly coastal protection solutions, with a particular focus on ecologically sensitive and high-tourism coastal areas.
The project represents the natural continuation of the BEACHTECH project, funded under the Interreg V-A Greece–Cyprus Programme 2014–2020, and is implemented by an experienced partnership comprising the University of the Aegean (Lead Partner), the North Aegean Regional Development Fund (PTAVA), the Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence (Cyprus) and the Akamas Municipality (Cyprus).
A core component of ECO-BEACHTECH is the pilot construction of an experimental submerged artificial reef system along a selected beach in Cyprus, aiming to reduce wave energy, enhance coastal protection and support marine biodiversity. The project also explores the use of 3D printing technologies for the development of innovative artificial reef structures. In parallel, advanced monitoring systems, including underwater sensors and beach-based cameras, will be deployed to assess shoreline evolution and project performance.
In addition, the project involves the identification and assessment of offshore sand deposits suitable for beach nourishment, as well as the application of hydrodynamic modelling to pilot beaches in Greece and Cyprus. These activities will evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed measures under present and future climate change scenarios, including sea level rise and extreme storm events. Furthermore, the project assesses coastal flood risk in selected island regions, contributing to climate adaptation planning and compliance with EU environmental policies.
Through its integrated and innovative approach, ECO-BEACHTECH contributes to sustainable coastal zone management, the promotion of the Blue Economy, and the implementation of European and international environmental legislation.
