Applying the ecosystem services concept in marine projects
A full consideration of ecosystem services (ES) impacts, interactions and improvements can result in more sustainable and adaptive solutions for dredging and marine construction projects. Furthermore, the benefits can be translated in monetary terms, providing returns on investment and highlighting the links between ecology and economy. For some however, the ES concept is too theoretical. This article seeks to show how the ES concept can actively be applied at any point during a project and the benefits of doing so. Its purpose is to provide a framework for integrated and interdisciplinary thinking throughout the different steps of the project cycle.
Some Proven Benefits of Polymer Use in the Treatment of Sediments in Recent Dredging Projects
To show the success of polymer use in highly contaminated areas, two recent projects are presented: at Port-La-Forêt harbour in La Forêt-Fouesnant, France and at the Kishon River seven kilometres downstream from Haifa, Israel.
Design Phases of a Project
The design of a dredging project will go through several phases – a preliminary design, a more detailed design, a final construction design, and maintenance.
Project Management
Management of a dredging project requires a systematic, well thought out plan from the initiation of the project through construction and maintenance.
Challenge in Logistics: New Suez Canal Project
The New Suez Canal project was a titanic effort in logistics. Six global dredging contractors completed the works within one year and several records were broken during the execution of the project. The contractors disposed of more than 245 million m3 of sand in just nine months.
Ecosystem Services: Towards Integrated Maritime Infrastructure Project Assessments
A case study of a tidal marsh restoration project at the Polders of Kruibeke in Belgium shows how an Ecosystem Services assessment can reveal otherwise hidden benefits.
Subsoil Improvement Works at DVIZ, Haiphong, Vietnam
As Vietnam seeks a balance between preserving land for agriculture and finding space for industry, creating new land is one solution. But waiting for subsoil to settle naturally at reclamation sites is time-consuming and costly.
Safe Disposal of Dredged Material in a Sensitive Environment
A state-of-the-art 3D plume model, used at the Ras Laffan Port Expansion project, simulates alternative disposal scenarios and helps develop Safe Disposal Maps.