Contribution of Nature-Based Solutions to the Socio-Economic Resilience of Market Gardening in a Coastal Environment: The Case of the Saint-Louis Marine Protected Area (Senegal)

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to analyze coastline mobility and evaluate the effects of soft solutions, such as typhavelles and reforestation, on market gardening in the Langue de Barbarie region, Saint-Louis, Senegal, an area highly vulnerable to coastal erosion, marine flooding, and soil salinization. Study Design: Observational and field-based study combining coastal geomorphological analysis and socio-economic surveys of local farmers. Place and Duration of Study: Langue de Barbarie, Saint-Louis, Senegal; fieldwork conducted between January and August 2022. Methodology: Eight (08) beach profiles were analyzed to assess coastline changes. Additionally, socio-economic surveys were conducted among market gardeners from affected villages to evaluate the impact of soft solutions on agricultural productivity.Given the limited number of market gardeners in these villages, a complete census survey was conducted among the 152 market gardeners identified by the AMP in 2021. Field observations focused on the effectiveness of typhavelles in promoting sediment deposition and dune formation, while surveys assessed changes in marine flooding, soil salinization, crop yields, farmer incomes, and the number of active market gardeners. Results: Typhavelles enhanced sedimentation, increasing beach width and forming a dune cordon approximately 60 cm in average height through trapping of wind-blown sand. Surveys revealed a reduction in marine flooding and groundwater salinization. Consequently, agricultural yields improved, incomes increased, and the number of active market gardeners rose. These results demonstrate a clear link between the implementation of soft solutions and socio-economic resilience of coastal farming communities. Conclusion: Soft solutions, such as typhavelles and reforestation, are effective tools for mitigating coastal erosion while enhancing the socio-economic resilience of market gardening in coastal areas. These interventions represent a practical approach to adapting to climate change and protecting vulnerable littoral communities.