Nature based solutions: coastbusters and bankbusters - proof of concept pilot projects for ecosystem based engineering
Type:
Presented during:
CEDA Dredging Days 2024
Authors:
T. Sterckx, M. Huygens, Th. Mascart, R. Geldhof and V. Stratigaki
Abstract
Coastal and estuarine tidal areas are some of the most productive, diverse, and valuable ecosystems in the world (see Costanza et al., 1997). When considering the combined benefits and services they provide, these ecosystems account for about 60% of the total economic value of the biosphere (Zamboni et al., 2021). They are however increasingly affected by climate change and human activity, heavily reducing the resilience of these ecosystems., leading to severe habitat deterioration and an increased flood risk, tidal amplification and strong erosion. Conventional technical engineering solutions that combat or mitigate these problems will become more and more unsustainable. Nature based Solutions are to be considered as valuable alternatives to tackle mutually an increased flood risk, tidal amplification and strong erosion on one side and to deliver enriched habitats and enhanced biodiversity on the other side. Nature based Solutions take into account the ecological complexity and dynamic ecosystem functioning. The R&D projects "Coastbusters" and "Bankbusters" consolidate and acquire knowledge on ecosystem processes through pilot projects and extensive field monitoring in order to facilitate habitat restoration in previously eroded environments. Innovation is actively pursued in detailed biological process insights, global ecosystem understanding, high risks linked to the highly dynamic and complex environment, resilient operational features, biodegradable material, sustainable eco-friendly building blocks, pioneering configuration and modular design, novel monitoring technology and an ecosystem services approach. Coastbusters has developed supporting engineering tools to facilitate a natural biogenic reef formation for innovative coastal zone management approach through sandy foreshore biostabilisation. The R&D program confirms the NbS potentials of the Coastbusters setup as a direct coastal protection contribution with enhanced biodiversity and increased water quality. The Bankbusters industrial dredging partners are designing DRECO (Dredged Ecological Compartment) units to be validated in a living lab pilot project. DRECO units – combining technical stability with dedicated ecological elements - are enabling the active restoration of marshland and mudflats along the estuarine river banks by beneficially re-using soft dredged sediments. Next to the technical and ecological design, pioneering monitoring completes the observation for a blueprint action plan and framework for the integration of relevant boundary conditions for ecosystem services delivery. Nature-based Solutions (NbS), which address societal challenges through flood protection, sustainable management and restoration of both natural and modified ecosystems, will benefit biodiversity and human well-being.
Keywords: Nature Based Solution, Flood Protection, Restoration of ecosystems, Improved biodiversity