Rock Armour - GCSE Geography Definition

Rock armour, also known as rip rap, is a coastal management technique used to protect shorelines from erosion and the impact of waves. It involves placing large boulders or rocks along the coast or riverbanks to absorb and deflect the energy of incoming water. By doing so, it reduces the force and speed of waves, helping to prevent the coastline from being worn away. This method is commonly used in areas where cliffs and beaches need protection in order to prevent the landscape from changing too much and to guard against flooding. Rock armour is an important part of managing and preserving coastal environments sustainably.