Ecological engineering in the coastal seascape

This editorial describes a 12-paper special issue that began with a symposium at EcoSummit 2016 in Montpellier France in August/September 2016 with a focus on ecological engineering and spatial planning in coastal seascapes. The papers in this issue review ideas around experimental design for testing and application of eco-engineering to reduce the impacts of coastal infrastructure and improve ecological outcomes. Similarly, the need for early integration of ecological principles into engineering designs (eco-design) is highlighted as a key factor in the success of impact mitigation (2 papers). Ideas are presented on spatial planning for coastal infrastructure to mitigate and offset impacts at regional scales (3 papers). At more local scales, empirical evidence is presented to support the manipulation of physical complexity on coastal infrastructure through the addition of artificial rock pools and turf mimics, as well as complex crevice and ledge habitat (3 papers). Chemical manipulations of substrate (concrete) are also explored (3 papers) with the aim of increasing the sustainability of structures and improving specific ecological outcomes. While increasing human pressure has pushed our oceans out of balance, this special issue provides practical solutions, supported by case studies and empirical data to begin helping the “feng shui” of our coastal seascape.