Course “Dredging for Sustainable Infrastructure”; 15-18 June 2026, Delft
Learn how to achieve dredging projects that fulfil primary functional requirements while adding value to the natural and socio-economic systems by acquiring an understanding of these systems in the context of dredging as well as stakeholder engagement throughout a project’s development.
MEET ARNOLD DE BRUIJN, IADC’S NEW SECRETARY GENERAL
On 1 November 2025, I stepped into the role of Secretary General of the International Association of Dredging Companies (IADC). In many ways, it felt like the natural continuation of a journey that started long before I ever imagined a career in dredging. My fascination with water, the maritime world, engineering and, above all, teamwork has shaped every decision I have made, from my earliest days in the Sea Scouts to becoming a naval architect and, later, an association professional. Looking back, each chapter prepared me for this new responsibility: helping guide an industry that shapes coastlines, protects communities and keeps global trade moving. This article reflects on that journey and shares my perspective on where our industry is headed. It is also the story of how I found myself “stuck in the mud,” why I am grateful for it and why I believe dredging is more essential than ever.
SEDIMENT: THE SILENT THREAT TO RESERVOIR SUSTAINABILITY
Reservoirs are critical elements of global water infrastructure, supporting water supply, flood protection, hydropower generation and ecological functions. Their long-term performance, however, is increasingly undermined by sedimentation – a slow and often overlooked process that reduces storage capacity and disrupts natural sediment continuity along river systems. This article examines sedimentation as a key sustainability challenge for reservoirs and impounded waters. It outlines the causes and impacts of sediment trapping, from declining reservoir capacity to downstream river and delta erosion, and explains why proactive sediment management is essential. The article concludes by presenting continuous sediment transfer as a sustainable approach to maintaining reservoir functionality while restoring sediment continuity.
Editorial: Creating greater social value
Guest editor - René Kolman, former IADC Secretary General
ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY
In the last edition of DFSI Magazine, the concept of how to integrate sustainability in relation to dredging projects was explained. The focus of this article, adapted from the fourth chapter of the Dredging for Sustainable Infrastructure book (2018), discusses the assessment and management of sustainability activities that need to be implemented in a project and provides the theme for this issue.
Community-based ecological mangrove restoration IN QUELIMANE, MOZAMBIQUE
The Quelimane Mangrove Restoration (QMaR) initiative, led by Van Oord, demonstrates a community-based ecological approach to mangrove restoration. Through hydrological interventions and alternative livelihood initiatives, 4 hectares of degraded mangrove habitat are being restored. One year after implementation, seedlings have established and grown well, especially near natural water sources. Over 100 community members have participated in an alternative livelihood programme, reducing dependence on mangrove logging and improving household incomes. Some even made investments such as purchasing property, demonstrating enhanced economic stability. These results highlight the critical role of integrating ecological restoration with community empowerment and livelihood support in achieving sustainable mangrove restoration.
SENEGAL, NDAYANE PORT CREATING A COMMUNITY-BASED SUSTAINABLE IMPACT
How can we balance the economic benefits of a large port development with measures that protect society and the environment? The deep-water port of Ndayane, 50 kilometres south of Dakar, is a practical example. Developed by DP World, with dredging and reclamation works being done by Jan De Nul, this port facility aims to boost trade and drive economic growth in Senegal, while also showing how major infrastructure projects involving challenging dredging and reclamation activities can create added value for local communities and the surrounding environment.
Empowering coastal youth through marine education
Dredging projects often focus on engineering and environmental outcomes, but their social impact can be equally transformative. In Costa Rica, DEME’s maintenance dredging works for the Costa Rican Petroleum Refinery (Recope – Refinadora Costarricense de Petróleo) haves parked a meaningful community initiative. Through the “Friends of the Sea” campaign, DEME, in collaboration with the national NGO called Latin American Sea Turtles Association (LAST), engaged young students from Moín Primary School in environmental education, fostering awareness and responsibility. This article explores how dredging projects can serve as platforms for social engagement, education and long-term sustainability.