What does the concept of 'natural barriers' include?

The concept of 'natural barriers' refers specifically to physical geographic features that exist in the environment and can impede movement or access. These include rivers, mountains, valleys, and other landforms that serve as obstacles. Natural barriers are significant in various contexts, such as military strategy, biodiversity conservation, and environmental science, as they can influence both human and wildlife behavior.

Concrete walls and fences are man-made structures and do not fall under the definition of natural barriers. Similarly, security personnel and electronic surveillance systems are human interventions designed to create security, but they are not considered natural features of the landscape. Understanding natural barriers is crucial for planning and operational purposes within maritime enforcement and can aid in determining strategic approaches to security and operations in coastal and navigable waters.