Gabion baskets are widely used in coastal protection as a flexible, durable, and environmentally friendly solution to erosion and wave impact. A gabion basket is typically made of galvanized or PVC-coated steel wire mesh, filled with stones, cobbles, or other durable aggregates. When placed along shorelines, these units form strong retaining and protective structures that can adapt to changing coastal conditions.In coastal environments, waves, tides, and currents constantly attack the shoreline, causing erosion and the loss of valuable land and infrastructure. Gabion baskets help dissipate wave energy before it reaches the coast. The voids between the stones reduce the force of incoming waves by allowing water to penetrate and slow down, rather than reflecting all the energy back into the sea. This energy dissipation significantly lowers the risk of scouring and undermining at the base of coastal embankments and cliffs.Gabion structures are also highly permeable, which is a key advantage compared to solid concrete walls. Permeability allows water to drain freely through the structure, reducing hydrostatic pressure behind coastal revetments or seawalls. This improves overall stability and minimizes the risk of structural failure due to water buildup. At the same time, the interstitial spaces within the baskets trap sediments, gradually creating a more stable shoreline.Flexibility is another important characteristic of gabion baskets. Unlike rigid concrete structures, gabions can tolerate minor ground movement and settlement without cracking. This makes them particularly suitable for soft or unstable coastal soils, where differential settlement is common. Individual units are wired together on site, creating a continuous, yet flexible, mass that can conform to the natural contours of the coastline.From an environmental point of view, gabion basket systems integrate well with the surrounding ecosystem. Over time, vegetation can establish within the gaps between rocks, further stabilizing the shoreline and promoting habitat creation for coastal flora and fauna. This natural integration can improve the aesthetic appearance of coastal defenses and reduce visual impact compared to massive concrete barriers.Gabion baskets can be employed in various coastal applications, including seawalls, revetments, dune stabilization, protection of road and railway embankments near the shore, and as foundations for promenade and harbor structures. They can also be combined with geotextiles to prevent soil loss through the mesh and enhance filtration.Installation is relatively straightforward, involving assembly of the wire mesh units, placement in the desired position, and filling with rock. Maintenance needs are generally low, limited mainly to inspection of the wire mesh condition and occasional replacement of damaged units or displaced stones. With proper design, material selection, and installation, gabion baskets provide a long-lasting, cost-effective method of coastal protection that balances engineering performance with environmental sustainability.