Since 2016, Esposende has been investing in coastal protection, particularly in reinforcing the North Breakwater at the mouth of the Cávado River. However, rising sea levels and coastal erosion continue to pose significant challenges.

North Breakwater Rehabilitation (2016)

In August 2016, rehabilitation work began on the North Breakwater, with an investment of €600,000. The project included:

• Reinforcement of 100 meters of the breakwater structure.
• Dredging of 350,000 cubic meters of sand to maintain navigability and preserve the Suave Mar Beach shoreline.

The main goal was to ensure safer access to the harbor and mitigate coastal erosion.

Rising Sea Levels and Coastal Erosion (2021)

Despite these efforts, by 2021, the situation had worsened. The Mayor of Esposende warned of a "serious danger" at the sandbar and river mouth, emphasizing that the rising sea level and sediment displacement were increasing the risk for fishermen and local communities. The natural barrier was eroding, and without further intervention, floods and loss of land could become more frequent.

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Future Concerns and Investments

The continuous rise in sea levels has led to increasing pressure for long-term coastal defense projects. Local authorities have been advocating for more substantial investments in reinforced coastal infrastructure, arguing that previous solutions were insufficient to counteract climate change effects.

Esposende remains in a race against time, as the forces of nature continue to reshape its coastline.