This is the latest in the IADC series of concise, easy-to-read “management summaries”, which give overviews of essential information on specific dredging and maritime construction subjects.
Facts About Environmental Monitoring explains why monitoring is necessary before, during and after most maritime construction projects. Dredging and maritime construction operations are a necessary element in the development of modern industrial society. The contribution to our economic growth and social security cannot be understated. Yet, at the same time, dredging activities will always create some change in the existing environment. Awareness of these changes helps all parties – Owners, Contractors, Government Authorities and the Public – to be prepared to address potential impacts in a reasonable way.
Environmental monitoring helps estimate how severe an impact may be, it can guide the selection of dredging equipment and it can indicate the time frame, the ‘window’ of the project, which can protect delicate marine species during their most vulnerable gestational periods. But not every method of environmental monitoring is applicable to every operation. Careful choice of methods leads to cost-effective implementation. Facts About Environmental Monitoring gives a clear rundown on how and when to use different monitoring methods, the difference between BACI, feedback and compliance monitoring and why monitoring ensures that dredging operations are carried out according to environmental requirements established by legal authorities, financial institutions and/or the project owner.
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Source: IADC, June 10, 2010