Within the framework of the research initiative CoastAdapt, the Forschungsstelle Küste of the NLWKN (NLWKN-FSK) is responsible for a dedicated work package focusing on the analysis and modelling of sediment transport processes in the coastal zone of the East Frisian Islands in Germany. Emphasis is placed on investing the long-term development of different sediment patterns within the reef arc–tidal basin system and how varying hydrodynamic boundary conditions such as changing wave climates and tidal regimes impact sediment fluxes, coastal morphology, and the stability of protective dune systems. This contribution directly supports the overarching goal of establishing a visible and internationally connected coastal competence center.

The work package involves a comprehensive evaluation and refinement of existing measurement data related to hydrodynamics and sediment transport, both within the surf zone and in adjacent offshore areas. These datasets are the basis for the calibration and validation of the numerical model within a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) framework. Different transport methods would be tested, and a suitable, improved sediment transport approach will be integrated into a large-scale numerical model enabling the simulation of spatial sediment dynamics across reef arc–tidal basin systems under varying boundary conditions. A key outcome will be the generation of a robust numerical model capable of qualitatively and quantitatively assessing natural sediment transport processes. These insights will help predict future impacts on beach sediment supply and dune stability—critical components of coastal protection.