North of the mouth of the Quequén River, in Bahía de los Vientos, the coastal front shows increasingly visible signs of deterioration. There, the constant onslaught of wind and waves accelerates an erosion process that progressively modifies the landscape.
In addition, the cliffs present multiple perforations generated by colonies of burrowing parrots, which find these soils an ideal site for nesting. Although they are part of the ecosystem, their activity also naturally contributes to the fragmentation of the terrain.
Consequently, this scenario combines natural and anthropogenic factors that intensify the loss of coastal surface. Thus, what was once an extensive beach begins to transform into an unstable and vulnerable edge.
Transformations that altered the coastal dynamics
The recession of the coast is linked to a key intervention: the expansion of the South Breakwater of the port of Quequén, inaugurated in 2008. This work modified the natural drift of sediments that fed the beaches of the area.
As a result, the sand stopped moving normally to the north, causing the loss of about 2500 meters of beach between Las Olas resort and Punta Carballido. Therefore, the dynamic balance of the coastal system was altered.
However, the defenses placed at the foot of the cliffs, such as rocks and breakwaters, failed to stop the advance of the sea. On the contrary, the energy of the ocean displaces them, leaving nearby homes and infrastructures exposed.
Social and urban consequences
The impact of erosion is not limited to the natural environment. Indeed, the disappearance of sections of the Costanera Avenue shows how the phenomenon also affects the urban infrastructure.
Likewise, homes that were once far from the sea are now on the edge of the cliff. This advance causes concern among residents and property owners, especially during intense weather events like southeast storms.
On the other hand, the recent real estate growth in Bahía de los Vientos increases exposure to risk. Consequently, urban development without adaptive planning could further aggravate the situation.
The environmental impact of coastal erosion
The coastal erosion implies the loss of natural habitats essential for numerous species. In this sense, the reduction of beaches and cliffs affects local biodiversity and alters ecological dynamics.
Moreover, it modifies the interaction between the sea and the continent, generating changes in sediment circulation and soil quality. Consequently, these processes can become irreversible if not properly managed.
Additionally, erosion increases vulnerability to climate change. The rise in sea level and the increase in storms intensify this phenomenon, compromising both ecosystems and human communities.
Remediation strategies and future challenges
In this scenario, replenishment emerges as an alternative, a technique that involves extracting accumulated sand from other areas and redistributing it over the affected beaches. This method was already applied in 1998 in Mar del Plata with positive results.
However, specialists warn that this measure must be complemented with other actions, such as sediment retention systems. Otherwise, the sand could be lost again over time.
Finally, the case of Quequén reflects the need for comprehensive coastal management. The combination of science, urban planning, and institutional commitment will be key to recovering the balance between development and environmental conservation.
