ERA issues beach cleaning operating procedures for environmentally sensitive beaches

ERA’s Operating Procedures on Beach Cleaning are being launched to guide site managers and beach cleaners on a number of beach cleaning operations so that these do not unduly impact the ecology of the beach. These procedures will facilitate the environmental permitting procedure that is already in place for the cleaning of such environmentally sensitive beaches.

The document covers a number of issues, such as how and when sea grass - Posidonia oceanica - can be removed. Other more specific sections on ecological, operational and waste management considerations are also included. The document was also designed to capture environmental permitting requirements, whether these are related to nature or waste, in one section so as to facilitate this process for applicants.

Through these operating procedures, the document aims to attain as near a balance as possible between keeping beaches clean for the enjoyment of the general public and protecting the ecology of these environmentally sensitive beaches. Beaches are a popular destination especially during the summer months. Many a times, this brings about issues of litter or other waste that are left on site. In addition, human debris accumulated on the shore can pose a hazard to both humans and animals if left unmanaged. The cleaning of beaches is therefore an important tool for visitor management and amenity. However, insensitive or incautious cleaning methodologies can be detrimental to the environmental characteristics of beaches. Adverse impacts can be particularly consequential in areas protected specifically for their environmental value.

One major environmental value is the role played by Posidonia oceanica, which provides food and habitat for a variety of species. Even when it washes ashore, it continues to serve important purposes providing a place where sand collects to help build beaches and dunes and prevent erosion, providing nutrients for coastal systems and areas where birds and other animals forage and find shelter. Posidonia oceanica should therefore, as a rule, be left in place for as long as possible during the year especially when the incidence of rough weather is higher, so as to maintain a healthy sand budget.