Strategies for Coastal Water Quality Management: A Case Study of Laem Chabang (Thailand) Deep-Sea Port Development

Abstract

An environmental study was conducted as a part of coastal water quality management for Laem Chabang Deep-Sea Port. It was revealed that the existing seawater quality at Laem Chabang area is generally well within standards for unpolluted seawater, making it suitable for fishing and recreation. Environmental impact assessment of the different activities to be carried out in relation to the Laem Chabang port development indicated that the following significant impacts on the marine environment can be anticipated: (1) direct damage to biological organisms by resuspension of organics due to disturbance of marine habitat during dredging/reclamation and breakwater/pier construction; (2) creation of high turbidity by disposal of dredge spoil which disturbs and/or smothers marine flora and fauna and, more importantly, poses the greatest threat to the tourism industry in Pattaya located about 12 km from the project site; (3) modification of the tidal current direction and velocity in the Laem Chabang bay as a result of dredging in the entrance channel, fairway and basin; (4) deterioration of seawater quality due to discharge of tapioca powder losses, domestic wastewater from port area and sewage from ships (5) destruction of the aesthetic aspects of the port waters and surrounding areas as a consequence of solid waste generation from cargo handling from ships. A number of strategies/measures for coastal water quality management to prevent or minimize the adverse impacts have been recommended. The proposed environmental protection program is necessarily justified considering the economic benefits to be gained by the country from port operations.