This is a lovely example of how models can be used intelligently to cap impacts and de-risk operations. I always like to talk about feedback monitoring – a DHI specialty that is endorsed by PIANC– and how dredging can be proactively managed to minimise impacts. Q5: Can you give an example of a solution where models made a difference? However, if supported by live onsite data stream and made web-accessible then traditional models will advance towards truly digital twins unlocking new possibilities. If data is sparse, models can fill data gaps and de-risk projects. For instance, we see a potential for using models as an integral part of the vessel control system to guide onboard decision in real-time. There is a long list of possibilities within the operational space. Models are particularly useful for distinguishing dredge plumes from background concentrations, assess cumulative effects and impacts during extreme events something otherwise difficult. We commonly use models to optimise and validate dredge plans prior to dredging works (for example, at the initial Environmental Impact Assessment stage). This is a nice one! For starters, models can be used to shape and test eco-friendly solutions, mitigation options and determine ‘environmental windows’ for limiting impacts of dredging. Q4: What are the benefits of using models? This will definitely make life easier for our clients and hopefully boost the potential of computer models in driving innovation within the industry. I am very pleased that we have launched a pioneering web-based application this year which allows easy access to complex modelling, where dredge plumes can be emulated in full, seamlessly and coherently. Q3: How is DHI contributing to this industry?ĭHI services the dredging industry by offering our expert advisory and trademark models both rooted in our detailed understanding of the complex processes associated with stirring of seabed sediments. Dredging, port and waterway engineering communities drive the innovation to comply, and it’s a constant source of admiration to me what this industry is achieving technically to keep up. Regulators and Environmental Protection agencies set the bar. Awareness and strict enforcement are key to fencing the problem. Several examples of exorbitant fines for violating, for example, ocean dumping acts can be found. To understand the seriousness, try googling ‘dredging penalties’. It can be tricky as dredge plumes are not always visible from the surface of the sea. Excess turbidity in the water has the potential for triggering permanent and damaging impacts to our marine environment. Q2: Why should we be concerned about the effects of dredging?ĭredging operations often create turbidity plumes. Common to these are that seabed material is relocated as part of an intervention. This could be nourishment of beaches to combat coastal erosion, creation of land reclamations, maintenance of river mouths for flood mitigation, maintenance of port access channels and port basins, trenching of pipelines and cables, sand mining, dredge spoil disposal, sand capping and so on. Q1: What is dredging?ĭredging is a massive business encompassing a wide range of activities on water. Jacob Hjelmager Jensen, Head of Projects at DHI, answers our questions about the role of computer models in dredging today and shares his insight on how models will drive innovation going forward in this digital age. So how can one ensure that dredging activities are carried out in an environmentally friendly way? The answer: by using modelling software!ĭr. Environmental protection agencies around the world are constantly raising the bar, which puts innovation at the heart of the dredging industry to drive new green technologies. Disturbing the seabed constitutes a source of pollution and while dredging supports fundamental needs of societies, tough legislation is in place to protect the marine environment and keep pollution in check. Millions of cubic metre seabed material is dredged and pushed around every year for various purposes.
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