Coastal areas: a call for expressions of interest to support local authorities

Given the increasing impact of climate change on coastal areas, the Conservatoire du littoral, BRGM and Cerema are launching a call for expressions of interest as part of the European LIFE Adapto+ project. The aim of this call for proposals is to select ten coastal areas, both in mainland France and in the overseas territories, in order to help them develop long-term strategies based on an approach to coastal adaptation that works in harmony with nature.

Subject to beach erosion and coastal flooding, France’s coastlines are exposed to natural hazards exacerbated by climate change. These phenomena, which are already evident, are expected to intensify over the coming decades. For local authorities, the challenge now is to anticipate these changes in order to better protect the public, whilst preserving natural environments and the activities that depend on them.

This is the whole point of the LIFE Adapto+ project, which offers practical support to help apply sustainable coastal management solutions. Its distinctive feature is its emphasis on facilitating the implementation of ‘flexible’ coastal management. It is no longer a question of trying to stabilise the coastline at any cost, but of adapting to changes by drawing on nature-based solutions. Preserving the dunes, restoring buffer zones, adapting certain land uses: these are all measures that can be implemented step-by-step, in line with local circumstances, as an alternative to more conventional approaches such as protective structures.

Technical and methodological support

This support should enable local authorities to gain a better understanding of the dynamics at work along their coastlines, to identify the social, economic and environmental challenges, and to compare different adaptation strategies.  

It will take the form of technical support provided over a total of 45 days between 2027 and 2029, drawing on the recognised expertise of the Conservatoire du littoral, BRGM and Cerema in these areas, as well as providing access to a structured methodology and decision-support tools. Local teams will also take part in training and discussion sessions, with a view to strengthening their skills and helping them to adopt the approach. 

Coastal areas of all types are eligible to apply

The call for proposals is aimed at coastal local authorities and their respective bodies (municipalities, inter-municipal authorities, joint associations, etc.) that have identified coastal hazards and have political backing. By supporting regions with a variety of characteristics, the scheme aims to demonstrate that there are alternatives to conventional engineering solutions and that they can be implemented gradually, in a coordinated manner and in a way that is tailored to local circumstances.

Creating a network of coastal regions committed to adaptation

As well as providing individual support, the LIFE Adapto+ project also aims to build a genuine community of stakeholders. The selected regions will join a national network designed to promote the sharing of experiences, the dissemination of best practice and the development of collective expertise. This momentum will help to drive change in public policy on coastal management, drawing on concrete lessons learnt that can be repeated.