This research focussed on the problem of turbidity during dredging, in particular during maintenance dredging. The methods that are currently used create excessive turbidity that is not being monitored. This has negative effects on the environment.
A literature study was performed to investigate the problems that are created by turbidity. The current dredging methods and their inefficiencies were investigated and analyzed. Several measuring and monitoring methods were touched on to quantify the current state of environmental concern. A Computational Fluid Dynamics model was written out in more detail to explain its potential in monitoring turbidity plumes. The conclusion of this research was that the environment is often not sufficiently taken into consideration during dredging operations. The findings of this research were that innovation is urgently needed in the dredging industry and the techniques currently in use. The recommendations included specific directions this innovation should take and what new technology exists that could be developed into commercially viable approaches that would be much safer for the environment.
