Why should the dunes be protected?

The summer season is in full swing - and if it's summer, it's the seaside. Many people spend their holidays on the beach, enjoying the beautiful views, the sun and the sound of the waves. But have you ever wondered what the sand hills that often tower over the beach are?

These are the dunes - an extremely important part of the coastal landscape that is under strict protection.

What are dunes?

Dunes are unique formations created from sand that is carried by the wind. Their function, however, is more than just a beautiful landscape feature.

There are two types of dunes:

• Coastal dunes - are found on beaches and coastlines,
• Inland dunes - occur inland, in the form of glacial remnants (for example in the Tuchola Forest), in desert areas or along rivers.

In this article we will focus on coastal dunes, as they are the ones most often at risk from destruction by human activity.

How are the dunes formed?

The wind carries masses of sand which settle in one place and take the form of hills. Initially, these are irregular embankments. However, over time, as the first plants (mosses, lichens, grasses) begin to appear on them, this sand begins to stabilise. Over time, the vegetation on this area begins to develop and grow, making the dune more resistant to the effects of weather conditions - wind and water.

There are three types of dunes most commonly found at the Polish seaside:

• White dune - is closest to the shore and is covered with grasses;
• Grey dune - has richer vegetation, such as lichens and low shrubs;
• Forest dune - overgrown with shrubs and trees.

Importance of dunes for nature and people

Dunes are not just a landscape feature, but also an important component of the coastal ecosystem. Many dune areas in Poland are included in the Natura 2000 programme.

These are the functions they perform in nature:

• Protection from storms and floods - dunes are like a protective wall that shields the land from sea flooding and coastal erosion.
• Habitat for many species - numerous plant and animal species inhabit it, including rare and endangered species.
• They store water - sand is like a natural reservoir, retaining moisture within it and having a positive effect on the growth of vegetation.

Why are the dunes under protection?

Dunes play a very important role in nature, but at the same time they are very fragile. They are formed by loose sand, which owes its stability to plants. Human activity can easily upset their balance.

Effects of climbing dunes and trampling vegetation:

• damage to plants and their roots;
• Sand subsidence and loss of dune stability;
• accelerated erosion,
• disturbance or destruction of the habitats of many plant and animal species.

For this reason, in Poland the dunes are protected and it is prohibited to enter them. Breaking the ban is punishable by a fine, as it is an offence.

The most beautiful dunes in Poland

In Poland we can find many picturesque dunes that surprise us with their wildness and natural beauty. Here are some of the most interesting places:

• Czołpino dunes - rich fauna and flora;
• Łebskie Dunes - located in the Słowiński National Park, they are known as high, moving dunes;
• Lubiatowskie Dunes - ideal for a stroll away from the crowds;
• The dunes of the Vistula Spit - beautiful scenery and many walking routes with viewpoints.