Challenges in coastal engineering
– Waves, storm surges, tides, tsunamis, sea level changes, and sea water pose specific challenges
– Metocean conditions such as local wind and wave climate are important
– Bathymetry and morphological changes need to be considered
– Sediment transport and ecosystem properties play a role
– The marine ecosystem is a crucial factor
Waves in coastal engineering
– Understanding wave phenomena like sea waves, swell, tides, and tsunamis
– Numerical and physical models used to study wave transformations
– Wave loading on coastal structures like breakwaters and sea walls
– Wave-induced currents affecting sediment transport
– Wave overtopping threatening the stability of coastal structures
Underwater construction in coastal engineering
– Underwater construction for foundations of structures
– Various structures requiring underwater work
– Harbour structures involving underwater construction
– Role of underwater construction in ensuring stability and functionality
– Use of specialized techniques and equipment
Sustainability and soft engineering in coastal engineering
– Favoring non-structural solutions to minimize adverse impacts
– Soft engineering approaches such as beach nourishment and habitat restoration
– Beneficial use of dredge material for nourishment and restoration
– Regional sediment management to balance erosion and accretion
– Recognizing scarcity of offshore and upland material resources
Key conferences and publications in coastal engineering
– The International Conference on Coastal Engineering (ICCE)
– ICCE as a biannual conference bringing together professionals
– Proceedings of ICCE providing valuable research and insights
– Other conferences and publications contributing to knowledge and advancements
– Research and collaboration driving innovation in coastal engineering Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coastal_engineering
Coastal engineering is a branch of civil engineering concerned with the specific demands posed by constructing at or near the coast, as well as the development of the coast itself.
The hydrodynamic impact of especially waves, tides, storm surges and tsunamis and (often) the harsh environment of salt seawater are typical challenges for the coastal engineer – as are the morphodynamic changes of the coastal topography, caused both by the autonomous development of the system and human-made changes. The areas of interest in coastal engineering include the coasts of the oceans, seas, marginal seas, estuaries and big lakes.
Besides the design, building and maintenance of coastal structures, coastal engineers are often interdisciplinary involved in integrated coastal zone management, also because of their specific knowledge of the hydro- and morphodynamics of the coastal system. This may include providing input and technology for e.g. environmental impact assessment, port development, strategies for coastal defense, land reclamation, offshore wind farms and other energy-production facilities, etc.
