Soft engineering
What Soft engineering means in Geography GCSE, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Soft engineering
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Soft engineering in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Works with natural processes and may include afforestation in the upper catchment to increase interception, or floodplain zoning to restrict development near the river.
Working with natural processes to protect coastlines, often blending into the environment and costing less than hard engineering, though requiring more maintenance.
A category of coastal management strategy that works with natural processes, using methods like beach nourishment to absorb wave energy.
Working with natural processes to reduce flood risk, using methods like flood plain zoning, river restoration, and planting trees.
Works with natural river processes to manage flood risk, avoiding artificial structures.
Managing the coast by working with natural physical processes, rather than using artificial structures.
Topics that use Soft engineering
- Coastal landscapes in the UK (AQA GCSE)
- River landscapes in the UK (AQA GCSE)
- Human activities can lead to changes in coastal landscapes which affect people and the environment (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
Using Soft engineering in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Geography questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge