Now that summer is approaching in the northern hemisphere and the heat is starting to increase, many people are already planning a beach holiday. Those who live in places far from the sea They enjoy walks along the shore so infrequently that sometimes they want to take a souvenir with them: shells, stones, beach sand… Anything will do. In recent years, much has been said about environmental hazards what does the first one mean? Shells are home to many animals and removing them from the beach can be disastrous. But what we don’t realize is the danger of removing rocks or sand from the beach.
In fact, the danger is so great that many countries have already started fining those who do it. Fines depend on the level of beach security or the amount of sand stolen. Because yes, although it may not seem like it, taking sand from the beach is still a form of theft.
This is so serious that Sardiniaone of the places where the penalties are highest, there may even be prison sentences if done on protected beaches and in such quantities that they suggest them commercialization. But why is something that seems innocent at first glance so dangerous?
Dangers of taking sand from the beach
Beach sand, like shells, is an important part of marine ecosystems. It is home to many animals, such as crabs, or they use it to bury eggs like turtles. But that is not all.
As explained in the article for Talk two environmental scientists from Lancaster University, Joseph Earl and Suzana IlicBeach sand also helps absorb wave energy. As a result, both it and the pebbles are a very important natural barrier to prevent flooding and erosion.
Amount of sand and pebbles self-regulating exactly along the waves. Sediment moves in and out of the water and is deposited on the shore in size depending on the strength of the waves. This is how that cape is formed near the breakwater, called Bern, which acts as the first barrier to the waves. In areas where it is more intense, it consists of larger pebbles, so the waves created by strong storms are easier to stop.
The problem is quantity
It makes sense that filling a small bag with sand while on vacation would not mean the end of the ecosystem. You should also not take a few soft stones with you and place them on a small plate at the entrance to the house or in the bathroom. But if thousands and thousands of visitors do this, the result is really dangerous.
Some regions have already begun to see the consequences of artificially removing sand from the beach. For example, this happens in some areas of EnglandTherefore, many years ago it was decided to fine those who decide to carry any sediment onto the beaches of almost the entire country. In fact, some beaches in the north west are already starting to issue fines of more than £1,000.
IN SardiniaAs we mentioned earlier, fines vary. from 500 to 3000 euros, although in very specific cases they can lead to imprisonment. Even in Spain, in particular, in the Canary Islands fines of from 150 to 3000 euros.
also in Mexico, a country with many protected beaches and a large influx of tourists, has begun to opt for one measure or another: charging tourists for the sand they take. Since this does not solve the problem, especially considering that these are usually tourists with great economic power, the recommendations are changing and the plan is to shift them directly towards fines.
Fines may be necessary, but above all they are necessary awareness. Many people who take sand from the beach do not realize the environmental problem it poses. Therefore, we must disclose and communicate risks. Thus, there are likely to be many tourists who will no longer behave this way, even on beaches where there is no fine for it. For others, having to dig deeper is always a good option.
Source: Hiper Textual
