However, the high percentage of organic matter present in them is proving it to be a difficult task. Especially in East Asia research is going on towards utilizing dewatered sediments for the production of concrete and construction block. The sand and gravel generated from dredging are used in construction industries. It is used in various industries as well. Likewise, if a certain land is to be used for constructing a building and happens to be at a lower level than the surrounding land dredging helps to elevate such lands. Beaches have many protective functions, primarily the prevention of floods. To replenish this sand dredging is sometimes done where there is excess and then that sand is deposited here. 4) Beach Nourishmentīeaches get eroded both due to human activity like sand mining as well as natural causes like storms and wave actions. Otherwise, they pollute the water leading to the death of many aquatic plants and animals. These need to be removed from time to time. Sometimes there are accidental or deliberate chemical spills. Waste deposits from factories and residences get accumulated at the bottom of seas and freshwater areas. Many times, new land is created from the ocean, rivers, and lakes by filling it with material collected by dredging.ģ) Environmental Dredging to Keep Waterbodies cleanĭredging is carried out in rivers, lakes ponds and shallow seas. Keeping the depth of waterways at optimum levels is crucial to prevent flooding and also allow passage of ships. Over time, waterways can get choked with sediments and trash if not dredged at regular intervals. Dredging allows cargo ships of all sizes to dock and not run aground. New waterways are built to improve connectivity with the new trading hubs.

What Is Dredging Used For?ĭredge removes sediments, pollutants, and debris, and hence, its applications are manifold.

Many times, it is also done to protect coasts, redevelop coast, or to reclaim the land. Special equipment called a Dredge is used to loosen and then suck out the sediment and debris.ĭredging keeps waterways and ports navigable. The material gathered is then deposited to different locations. Dredging refers to the process of excavation of sediments from the bottom or sometimes the banks of rivers, lakes, harbors, and other water bodies.

Define dredged