The Port of Esbjerg (PoE) is undertaking this feasibility study, motivated by the need for robust coastal protection for its eastern extension and a commitment to enhancing marine biodiversity near the Wadden Sea National Park. The primary objective is to assess an original and innovative solution: incorporating clay, originating from the Port’s own dredging activities and currently stored on-site, into ECOncrete’s bio-enhancing Coastalock™ armor units. This initiative showcases PoE’s vision and leadership in pursuing nature-positive infrastructure and a circular economy.
The study aims to define an optimal concrete mix design using this reclaimed clay, provide conceptual designs, and evaluate biological enhancement opportunities. Key expected achievements include a comprehensive feasibility report, providing crucial data for potential large-scale implementation and turning a dredged byproduct into a valuable resource.
This project directly contributes to sustainability and the UN SDGs, notably SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by valorizing dredged materials, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). The study fosters cooperation with ECOncrete Aqua SL and will offer significant learning for replication in other ports, demonstrating a commitment to impactful, sustainable development with a clear pathway to measurable impact.