Paper short abstract:

This paper reckons with the liveliness of sand and the active role that it plays in shaping the socio-economic fabrics of the coastal communities in southwest Taiwan.

Paper long abstract:

For the residents along the southwest coast of Taiwan, sand is deeply intertwined with their livelihoods. Large offshore sandbars act as natural barriers, creating calm waters conducive for small boats and oyster racks in the inner sea; river sand that washes into the sea forms bottom sediment, a major nutrient source for marine life, thus supporting a still-thriving artisan fishery. Sand can also hinder human livelihoods, however: siltation in fishing harbors and navigation channels causes inconvenience and risks, and over-accumulation of sediment may impede the growth of oysters. Since the mid-20th century, coastal management authority has sought to control the flow of sand using modern engineering techniques, adjusting the distribution of sand between land and sea based on human needs. Despite their efforts and advancements, predicting and controlling the movements of sand remains challenging. This paper reckons with the connotations of the regional common saying, "sand is alive." I argue that, first, "alive" means not just "moving" but moving in ways beyond mechanical laws' predictions. Secondly, sand being "alive" conjures up Donna Haraway's concept of "lively commodity," referring to sand's capacity to generate value. The unceasing renewal and vitality of drifting sand, while complicating coastal management, serves as a continuous source of jobs, revenues, and social capital.