In conversation
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Heiko Spekker, professor of hydraulic and maritime engineering at Bremen University of Applied Sciences, was previously head of the hydraulic and coastal engineering department at Inros Lackner until 2022.
What special challenges do civil engineers face when constructing on and in the water, compared to construction projects on land?
In hydraulic and maritime engineering projects, factors such as water levels, flow speeds, wave heights and ice must be considered. The precise determination of the applicable design input information (including design water levels, maximum flow velocities, significant wave heights, groundwater levels, etc.) is of great importance. Erosion and sedimentation processes must often be also analysed in river engineering, port construction or coastal protection projects. Structural elements are exposed to environmental conditions such as changing water levels, bedload in flowing water or chemical attack, e.g. from seawater, contaminated groundwater or wastewater. By applying a higher classification of exposure conditions, by increasing concrete cover and by providing adequate corrosion protection to steel components, deterioration can be minimised and the required level of durability can be ensured.
What does this complexity necessitate for projects to be implemented successfully?
The impacts of projects on people and the environment are considered as part of the planning process prior to finalisation of designs or awarding of planning approval. This can result in measures being taken to avoid or reduce the foreseen impacts, or can lead to compensatory or replacement measures. Very often, conflicting interests must be considered and weighed against each other, which can lead to long planning and approval processes. Informing the affected population and relevant bodies at an early stage, maintaining productive communication with them, and giving them the opportunity to participate in the approval process, can help to identify potential concerns in good time and possibly avoid complaints or legal challenges at a later stage.
What are the biggest challenges in terms of coordination and cooperation between different stakeholders such as authorities, environmental experts and the affected population?
The impacts of projects on people and the environment are considered as part of the planning process prior to finalisation of designs or awarding of planning approval. This can result in measures being taken to avoid or reduce the foreseen impacts, or can lead to compensatory or replacement measures. Very often, conflicting interests must be considered and weighed against each other, which can lead to long planning and approval processes. Informing the affected population and relevant bodies at an early stage, maintaining productive communication with them, and giving them the opportunity to participate in the approval process, can help to identify potential concerns in good time and possibly avoid complaints or legal challenges at a later stage.
What developments and trends do you expect in hydraulic and maritime engineering in the coming years, particularly in the context of increasing urbanisation and climate change?
Worldwide, many megacities are located in coastal areas, and predicted global and regional rises in sea levels, along with changes in weather patterns (precipitation, storms, etc.), will increase the challenges for many urban areas in terms of drainage and flood protection. Adaptation projects will therefore play a major role in countering climate change. From a water management perspective, “sponge city” concepts can help – storing rain and surface water like a sponge and releasing it again in dry periods. Flood-safe construction, floating structures and possible retreat strategies are also becoming increasingly relevant.
How can initiatives such as the EU’s “Blue Deal” help to better link water management and sustainable development?
All initiatives that deal with sustainable water management, including the appropriate management of water supplies, are to be welcomed. It is a good thing that members of the EU Parliament are now campaigning across party lines for water as a basic resource. This summer, southern Italy experienced a drought and water shortage. In Germany, too, we have recently experienced extremely dry years. In the context of climate change, access to water will become more important for people, the environment, agriculture and industry, so increased investment in sustainable water management is required.