Jan De Nul - Every year, we dredge millions of cubic meters of material to keep our ports and rivers accessible. In the Bankbusters project, we explored whether this dredged material could also be used to naturally protect riverbanks from erosion. The initial results are promising: when combined with willow bundles and rock, dredged sediments provide a strong and sustainable solution.
Tidal areas and wetlands along rivers are crucial ecosystems. They help prevent flooding, reduce erosion, and purify water. Unfortunately, these areas are under pressure from human activity and natural forces. With Bankbusters, we demonstrate that it is possible to restore and strengthen these habitats naturally, with positive effects on biodiversity, flood protection, and sustainable economic growth.