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Climate changes
Abrasion is the process of soil or rock erosion caused by natural activities such as ocean waves, currents, and tides. This phenomenon commonly occurs in coastal areas and is considered a serious threat to both the environment and nearby settlements.
Abrasion is often confused with erosion, though they differ significantly. Erosion is the process of soil removal caused by wind, water, or ice across various land areas. Meanwhile, abrasion specifically occurs in coastal regions due to the interaction between the sea and land.
Constant waves crashing against the coast can slowly erode the land. Tidal movements accelerate this process, especially during storms or high waves.
Mangroves and coastal trees like beach pine serve as natural barriers against abrasion. When these vegetations are removed, shorelines become more vulnerable to erosion.
Sand mining, land reclamation, and construction of hotels or buildings along the coast disturb the natural stability of shorelines and accelerate the abrasion process.
Rising sea levels, a result of global warming, increase the risk of abrasion in many coastal areas in Indonesia.
Abrasion causes coastlines to "retreat," meaning areas that were once safe are now increasingly threatened by the ocean.
Habitats such as mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs can be severely damaged by abrasion, endangering marine life that depends on them.
Roads, buildings, and public facilities near the coastline may collapse or become unusable due to intense wave activity.
Agricultural and residential lands in coastal regions can disappear if abrasion continues unchecked.
Many coastal residents are forced to evacuate or migrate because their homes become unsafe or are submerged due to abrasion.
Fishermen experience declining catches due to degraded marine ecosystems. Meanwhile, coastal farmers lose their cultivable land.
Governments and communities must invest heavily in constructing wave breakers or relocating residential areas.
Abrasion can trigger population displacement, creating what’s known as "climate refugees," especially when disasters occur repeatedly.
Demak Regency has experienced severe abrasion that has caused the loss of over 2,000 hectares of land. Entire villages like Timbulsloko are now permanently flooded and accessible only by boat. Mangrove forests that once thrived in the area have vanished, forcing residents to live in stilt houses. [Ref]
Pekalongan suffers from both abrasion and tidal flooding (locally known as rob). Neighborhoods in Tirto District and North Pekalongan are permanently submerged. Schools, homes, and farmlands have been abandoned, forcing residents to relocate. [Ref]
The government has built hard structures such as seawalls, groynes, and breakwaters to reduce wave energy and prevent further erosion.
Replanting mangroves has become a national strategy, implemented in various regions such as Bali, North Sumatra, and Kalimantan.
Designated zones prevent excessive development in vulnerable coastal areas, allowing better protection and conservation.
Involving local communities in coastal conservation ensures that mitigation programs are sustainable and community-driven.
These alternative coastal protection systems are cost-effective and adaptable to various shoreline conditions.
Technology helps provide accurate mapping of erosion-prone areas for better planning and response.
Modern land reclamation incorporates ecological considerations and involves community consultation.
Mangroves are highly effective at absorbing wave energy and carbon, making them a sustainable long-term solution.
Rehabilitating coral reefs can slow down wave impacts and act as natural barriers against abrasion.
Techniques such as artificial sand dunes and the use of coconut fiber to hold soil are now being implemented in many locations.
Coastal communities and fishing groups are taking initiative by planting mangroves and cleaning beaches.
These initiatives prepare residents for coastal disasters through training and emergency response systems.
Educating school children about coastal conservation fosters long-term awareness and responsibility.
Restoration projects often involve NGOs and international agencies that provide funding and technical support.
Universities and research institutes contribute through scientific studies and technological innovation.
Companies can support conservation projects through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs.
Abrasion is a real and urgent threat that cannot be ignored. Its causes are multifaceted—both natural and human-induced. Its impacts are devastating, not only to the environment but also to the livelihoods and safety of coastal populations. Therefore, comprehensive and sustainable solutions are required—ones that combine technological, policy, and community-based approaches.
1. What is coastal abrasion?
Coastal abrasion is the erosion of shoreline land due to waves, currents, and tidal action.
2. Why is abrasion dangerous to communities?
Abrasion can destroy homes, infrastructure, and productive land, forcing people to relocate.
3. How can we prevent abrasion naturally?
The best way is through mangrove planting and maintaining coastal vegetation.
4. Can abrasion occur in river areas?
Yes, especially at river mouths that are directly connected to the sea and have strong currents.
5. Who is responsible for handling abrasion?
Governments, communities, and private sectors all share responsibility for managing and mitigating abrasion.
Jejakin’s green programs combine high-tech monitoring, biodiversity restoration, and community-led initiatives to deliver powerful, sustainable change across ecosystems.
