Abstract
The Building with Nature (BwN) approach developed by Ecoshape suggests that nature-based solutions can be sustainable and cost-effective alternatives for traditional engineering solutions. Widening the solution space by studying and understanding the physical and ecological system in the early stages of port planning and design is more likely to result in sustainable ports with opportunities for multi-functionality and respect for nature. This paper applies the BwN philosophy to a case study, i.e., the ongoing port development in Kuala Tanjung in Indonesia and examines the technical and financial feasibility of a nature-based concept, i.e., a mangrove breakwater instead of a traditional 'hard' breakwater. Mangroves can realize significant wave attenuation, and at the same time, they are productive eco-systems that can result in long-term benefits through multifunctional land use. A berm built of dredged material with a mild slope which 'grows' naturally by accretion behind permeable dams can create the right conditions for mangrove trees to grow. This mangrove protection can develop into a sustainable barrier which grows with the (relative) sea level rise by trapping sediments. A preliminary design was made on the basis of information available in literature. A rough cost comparison considering only the supply and placing of fill material showed that mangrove breakwater is about 25percent more expensive than a hard breakwater for the case under study. In view of the numerous port projects being planned in Indonesia, the technical and financial feasibility of mangrove breakwaters that can also enhance nature create added value for the surroundings is a promising finding.Recorded Presentation from the vICCE (YouTube Link): https://youtu.be/Rr8P8G1GjgM
Highlights
Large scale infrastructure development usually has a lasting impact on the surrounding environment
The new Building with Nature (BwN) approach developed by Ecoshape (2018) constitutes a paradigm shift from the traditional approach to design by focusing on natural ecosystems and the benefits and services they can provide to humankind1
It is based on the understanding that widening the solution space by studying and understanding the physical and ecological system is more likely to result in win-win solutions with respect for nature, that are acceptable to both project proponents and environmental stakeholders
Summary
Background Large scale infrastructure development usually has a lasting impact on the surrounding environment. Large scale infrastructure planning traditionally follows a Building in Nature approach with a focus on the mitigation and compensation of the negative effects of a pre-defined design. The new Building with Nature (BwN) approach developed by Ecoshape (2018) constitutes a paradigm shift from the traditional approach to design by focusing on natural ecosystems and the benefits and services they can provide to humankind. The new Building with Nature (BwN) approach developed by Ecoshape (2018) constitutes a paradigm shift from the traditional approach to design by focusing on natural ecosystems and the benefits and services they can provide to humankind1 It attempts to deploy the properties of ecosystems to create viable, naturebased solutions that meet functional design requirements. It is based on the understanding that widening the solution space by studying and understanding the physical and ecological system is more likely to result in win-win solutions with respect for nature, that are acceptable to both project proponents and environmental stakeholders
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
