Bio-Engineering Sediment Management And Removal of Turbidity Technologies: BESMART Technologies

At Deltares in the Netherlands, a research team is developing a portfolio of technologies dedicated to the management of the finest and most challenging fraction of soft sediments. These technologies may unambiguously be called nature based because they make use of natural processes to enhance dewatering and strengthening, induce flocculation and the settling of fines, and protect the muddy bed from erosion.

Interview Patrick Meire – ‘We must try to use the best of the science to manage the environment.’

Ecologist Patrick Meire has been researching the Scheldt for decades in the hope of implementing solutions which undo the damage caused by humans, industry and natural processes.

Future Research Topics

Future research will continue to focus on the environment and sustainable dredging methods and equipment, with an emphasis on the threats of climate change.

Research & Development

Research & Development is the foundation for state-of-the-art dredging processes in terms of technical, environmental and managerial competencies.

The Monitoring Programme for the Maasvlakte 2 Construction at the Port of Rotterdam

Compliance for permitting was not enough for the monitoring team at the Port of Rotterdam. When they discovered gaps in scientific knowledge, they initiated more research.

DOER: A Major Dredging Research Programme

A system of standards and solutions is being sought by the USACE to take into account the huge geological, meteorological, environmental, morphological and physical differences in the various US waterways and ports.