Building with Nature

Abstract

In this thesis, a literature study is presented about Building with Nature and its applications. Building with nature is about combining the protection of the coast and the improvement of the recreational area and the ecosystem in a multifunctional application. This is achieved by using the natural dynamics of the area to redistribute sand over a large area. Three nourishments are investigated that all lie in different environments; a sandy beach, an estuary and a lake. These nourishments, the Zandmotor, the Galgeplaat and the Workumer Buitenwaarden nourishment, all have similarities and differences. Model studies to predict the behavior of all three nourishment are used in this thesis to explain the dynamics and changes and to point out significant differences and similarities between the three nourishments. To conclude, a ‘zandmotor-like’ nourishment is proposed at the coast of Lincolnshire in the UK. Nowadays, this coast is strengthened by annual nourishments. These annual nourishments may be replaced by a mega-nourishment to protect the coast, increase the recreational area, stimulate the ecosystem and biodiversity, but also work together with nature, which is a win-win situation for both humans and nature.