Quantifying Sustainability of Coastal Engineering Solutions
Development of an Assessment Framework to Quantify Sustainable Aspects of Coastal Engineering Solutions
M.A.M. Al-Qadi (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)
Jose A.A. Antolinez – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Coastal Engineering)
E Mostert – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Water Resources)
Jeroen van den Bos – Graduation committee member (Royal Boskalis Westminster)
Irena Doets – Graduation committee member (Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V.)
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Abstract
This thesis reviewed current methods for monetarily quantifying the sustainable aspects of coastal engineering solutions. It developed a holistic monetary valuation framework that integrates the Ecosystem Services Assessment (ESA) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the impacts and benefits of coastal engineering interventions. The framework offers a comprehensive approach to assessing the economic, social, and environmental impacts and benefits of coastal solutions, thereby enabling informed decision-making.
Applying the framework to a case study in the Netherlands demonstrated its effectiveness in providing valuable insights into the sustainability of coastal protection measures. The sensitivity analysis underscored the importance of accurately valuing ecosystem services and environmental impacts, as well as the influence of economic parameters, materials, and modes of operation on project viability. Additionally, the framework’s potential for broader application was illustrated through a feasibility study in Suriname.
The study’s findings highlight the need for improved data collection, stakeholder engagement, methodological refinements, and consideration of policy environments to enhance the framework’s applicability and effectiveness. Future research should address these areas to further improve the informed decision-making process regarding the sustainability of coastal engineering alternatives.