Sand dunes play several important roles for ecosystems and people. They act as buffers that absorb wave energy and storm surge, helping to protect shorelines, beaches, and inland areas from erosion and flooding. They also trap and filter pollutants, contributing to improvements in air and water quality, and they host a diverse range of plants and animals, supporting biodiversity. In addition, dunes provide habitat for specialized wildlife and serve as sites for recreation and tourism, contributing to cultural and economic values in coastal regions. Finally, dunes are dynamic systems; their vegetation and sediment move over time, which helps rebuild beaches after storms and maintain long-term coastal resilience.