The summer issue includes articles on 2D effects on dune erosion at Maasvlakte 2, An efficient tool for environmental control in dredging operations and Environmental management and mitigation measures: Addu City project.
Dredging and reclamation projects can significantly impact local ecosystems. Negative impacts can be minimised by adopting proper environmental management and mitigation, from preparation to completion phase. Addu City project sets an example of implementing novel construction methodologies and successfully addressing environmental challenges. The project has created over 200 hectares (ha) of climate resilient land for housing and touristic development. Enclosure of footprints, relocation of corals and seagrass (at pilot level) before reclamation process, and monitoring sediment impact in the nearby marine protected areas during dredging and reclamation are exemplary of the management approach applied to ensure minimisation of potential negative environmental impacts.
Environmental management and monitoring programmes are essential for identifying and mitigating adverse impacts that dredging activities may have on the environment. However, it is not always feasible, especially for the client, to have the necessary tools to conduct these tasks adequately, whether due to cost constraints or limited information availability. The use of the Automatic Identification System (AIS), as an efficient and cost-effective monitoring method in dredging projects, can lead to significant improvements in project environmental management. In cases involving trailing suction hopper dredgers (TSHD), this tool allows for equipment tracking, verifying the proper use of contract-approved areas and additionally estimating daily production values through a simplified method.
Dune erosion due to storm surges and severe wave attack is the primary failure mechanism of sandy sea defences. At a curved coastline, dune erosion is greater than at a straight coastline. However, how much higher is often difficult to predict. This article presents a comparison of field observations and model results of the response of the Maasvlakte 2 curved sandy sea defence to storm attack.
Frank Verhoeven, President of IADC, shares his thoughts on todays’ issues related to the dredging industry and introduces the articles in this issue of Terra et Aqua.
