Investigation of the Socioeconomic Implications of Grey Coastal Infrastructure Used for Coastal Protection in Ghana

Charuka, B. and Angnuureng, D.B., 2024. Investigation of the socioeconomic implications of grey coastal infrastructure used for coastal protection in Ghana. In: Phillips, M.R.; Al-Naemi, S., and Duarte, C.M. (eds.), Coastlines under Global Change: Proceedings from the International Coastal Symposium (ICS) 2024 (Doha, Qatar). Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 113, pp. 100-104. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. In the 21st century, anthropical deeds and climate-induced sea-level rise along the coasts increased the demand for coastal protection globally. Within two decades (2000-2023), coastal grey infrastructure was dominantly used to protect the Ghanaian coastline in response to severe coastal erosion. However, this grey infrastructure caused unwelcomed socioeconomic impacts that have not been fully investigated. Thus, the main goal of this study is to explore the socioeconomic pitfalls of using grey infrastructure for coastal line protection in Ghana through in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions. In addition, secondary data, including televised interviews, video recordings, and published reports, were employed. The findings reveal that grey infrastructure affects artisanal fishery operations by changing fish-landing sites, compromised beach seine fishing, threatening coastal community livelihoods, and loss of beach access. Aside these, it affects breeding grounds for Olive ridley turtle and fishes. The results also reveal the non-inclusion of stakeholders in coastal management decision-making. Many stakeholders prefer shore-perpendicular groynes since they have less socioeconomic impacts than shore-parallel infrastructures like revetments and seawalls. There is the need to review coastal protection strategies to include nature-based solutions, and socioeconomic impacts of hard structures on artisanal fisheries and coastal tourism. To ensure good governance, stakeholder engagement, and inclusion in the planning and implementation of coastal adaptation approaches in Ghana remain crucial.