Marine Infrastructure and Marine Ecosystem
Introduction
Human civilization has been
intricately dependent on the ocean since ancient times. Throughout history,
coastal communities and maritime civilizations have thrived by harnessing the
vast resources and benefits that the ocean offers. From sustenance to trade and
cultural exchange, the ocean has provided humans with an array of necessities
and opportunities. Ancient civilizations relied on the ocean for fishing, which
served as a vital source of food and sustenance. Coastal regions became hubs of
trade, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies across vast
distances. Maritime routes opened up new avenues for exploration, colonization,
and cultural diffusion. The ocean also played a significant role in
transportation, enabling the movement of people and goods, fostering economic
growth, and connecting diverse societies. Today, the dependency on the ocean
continues, with maritime trade, fishing industries, offshore resources, and
even tourism playing key roles in sustaining human livelihoods and global
economies. Moreover, the ocean's influence extends beyond economic
considerations, with its beauty, recreational opportunities, and ecological
services providing solace, inspiration, and a sense of wonder to humanity.
Recognizing the critical importance of the ocean, it becomes imperative for
society to ensure its sustainable use and conservation, preserving this age-old
dependency for generations to come.
However, nowadays a race for expansion of the land area to have a land-sea combo infrastructure has intensified the problem of marine life. In such a project, we are not only invading the marine ecosystem for temporary use, but we are acquiring it permanently.
Marine infrastructure can cause light, noise, and chemical pollution. It can also disrupt marine habitats and make it easier for invasive species to spread. As a result, marine life is under
increasing pressure, which can lead to reduced resilience and increased mortality. Previous have
Fig: Man-made Island- Dubai
shows that human activities collectively have a negative impact on marine life. However, the multiple impacts of marine infrastructure have yet to be well studied.
Marine infrastructure can also block fish migration routes and disrupt spawning
grounds.
The cumulative effects of marine
infrastructure and other human activities can be devastating for marine
ecosystems. It is important to be aware of the negative impacts of marine
infrastructure so that we can take steps to mitigate them. By working together,
we can protect our oceans and the marine life that depends on them.
Market Expansion and Opportunities
In 2020, the global market for marine infrastructure was valued at US$1.2
trillion. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to be the fastest-growing market
for marine infrastructure, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5%
from 2020 to 2025. The main drivers of growth in the marine infrastructure
market are the increasing demand for offshore oil and gas production, the
expansion of renewable energy projects, and the growth of the shipping
industry. The acquisition of marine areas for marine infrastructure construction
can have a significant impact on the marine environment.
 |
| Fig: Blue Growth Schematic |
Blue Economy and Blue Growth: The
concept of a "blue economy" came out of the 2012 Rio+20 Conference
and emphasizes conservation and sustainable management, based on the premise
that a healthy ocean
ecosystems are more productive and a must for sustainable
ocean-based economies. To support a shift to this new approach, the UN Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched the Blue Growth Initiative, through
which it will assist countries in developing and implementing blue economy and
growth agendas and the European Union developed its long-term strategy to
support sustainable growth in the marine and maritime sectors as a whole. Seas
and oceans are drivers for the European economy and have great potential for
innovation and growth.
The 'blue' economy represents roughly 5.4 million jobs and generates a gross
added value of almost €500 billion a year. However, further growth is possible
in a number of areas which are highlighted within the strategy.
Manmade Island
The number of man-made islands has increased by over 50% since 2000.
The majority of man-made islands are located in Asia, with China accounting for
the largest number of islands. The growth of man-made islands is driven by a
number of factors, including increasing population, economic development, and
environmental protection. The growth of man-made islands has a number of
environmental and social implications, including the destruction of marine
habitats, pollution, and the displacement of people.
As we can
see, the majority of man-made islands are located in Asia. China accounts for
the largest number of man-made islands, with over 1,000 islands.Data on manmade Island.
The growth of man-made islands is driven by a
number of factors, including increasing population, economic development, and
environmental protection.
- Increasing population: The
world's population is growing rapidly, and with it, the demand for land.
Man-made islands offer a way to create new land in areas where it is
scarce.
- Economic development:
Man-made islands can be used to support economic development. For example,
they can be used to build ports, airports, and other infrastructure. They
can also be used to create new tourist destinations.
- Environmental protection:
Man-made islands can be used to protect natural areas from development.
For example, they can be used to create artificial reefs to protect coral
reefs from fishing and other activities.
Problems as a Whole
Marine infrastructure projects
can face a wide range of challenges. Although the challenges are different for
different project based on the local issues and that must be identified and
mitigated through Environmental Impact Studies and Project Environmental
Management Plan. However, some of the challenges that have been identified as
very common are listed below:
Habitat
Destruction: The
construction of marine infrastructure such as ports, piers, and offshore
platforms often involves the destruction and alteration of natural habitats,
including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. This loss of
habitat can have significant impacts on marine species that rely on these
ecosystems for food, shelter, and breeding.
Noise
Pollution:
Construction activities and ongoing operations of marine infrastructure
generate significant noise, which can disrupt marine species' communication,
feeding patterns, and reproductive behaviours. Marine animals, such as whales,
dolphins, and fish, rely on sound for navigation, finding mates, and locating
prey. Excessive noise can interfere with these crucial activities.
Water Pollution: The development of marine infrastructure can lead to increased
pollution in the surrounding waters. Runoff from construction sites, discharge
of industrial waste, and accidental oil spills pose threats to marine life.
Pollutants can contaminate the water, affecting the health and survival of
marine organisms.
Physical Barriers: The construction of structures like seawalls, breakwaters, and offshore
wind farms can create physical barriers that alter natural water flow patterns.
These barriers can disrupt migratory routes of marine animals, preventing them
from accessing essential feeding or breeding grounds.
Introduction of Invasive Species: The establishment of new marine
infrastructure often involves the introduction of non-native species through
biofouling on ships or equipment. These invasive species can outcompete native
species, disrupt the balance of the ecosystem, and lead to the decline of
indigenous marine life.
Increased Vessel Traffic: Expanding marine infrastructure leads to increased vessel traffic,
including cargo ships, tankers, and recreational boats. This heightened
maritime activity raises the risk of collisions with marine mammals, turtles,
and other vulnerable species. It can also result in underwater noise pollution
from ship engines and propellers.
Climate Change and Sea Level Rise: As marine infrastructure continues to expand, it becomes more
susceptible to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and
more frequent extreme weather events. These changes can cause damage to
structures and further disrupt marine ecosystems, affecting the overall health
and resilience of marine life.
Mitigation Measure
Mitigating the impacts on marine life
resulting from the development of marine infrastructure requires a proactive
and holistic approach. Here are some strategies and measures that can help
mitigate these problems:
- Environmental Impact Assessments:
Conduct comprehensive environmental impact assessments before starting any
marine infrastructure project. This will help identify potential risks and
develop appropriate mitigation strategies.
- Habitat Conservation and Restoration: Identify and protect critical marine habitats, such as coral
reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangrove forests, through marine protected
areas or other conservation measures. Implement habitat restoration
projects to rehabilitate damaged ecosystems.
- Sustainable Construction Practices: Incorporate sustainable construction practices that minimize
environmental impacts. This includes reducing sediment and pollutant
runoff, employing noise reduction measures, and adhering to best practices
for waste management.
- Noise Mitigation:
Minimize underwater noise levels generated by construction and operational
activities. This can be achieved by using quieter machinery, establishing
quiet zones in sensitive areas, and implementing construction schedules
that avoid critical periods for marine species.
- Pollution Control:
Implement strict measures to prevent and control water pollution. This
includes proper management of construction waste, regular monitoring of
water quality, and utilizing environmentally friendly materials and
practices.
- Vessel Traffic Management:
Develop and enforce regulations for vessel traffic to minimize collisions
with marine life. This can involve speed restrictions, navigational
guidelines, and the establishment of marine corridors or wildlife
crossings.
- Invasive Species Prevention:
Implement measures to prevent the introduction of invasive species through
biofouling control on ships and equipment. Strict protocols for ballast
water management and hull cleaning can help reduce the risk of introducing
non-native species.
- Research and Monitoring:
Conduct ongoing research and monitoring programs to assess the impacts of
marine infrastructure on marine life. This data will help identify
emerging issues and inform adaptive management strategies.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration: Involve relevant stakeholders, including government agencies,
environmental organizations, local communities, and industry
representatives, in decision-making processes. Collaboration and
engagement promote shared responsibility and foster innovative solutions.
- Compliance and Enforcement:
Establish robust regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to
ensure adherence to environmental regulations and mitigation measures.
Here are few examples of the projects
worldwide that created problems for marine life from rapidly growing marine
infrastructure:
- The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: The construction of ports and shipping channels along the
coastline adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef has raised concerns about the
potential impacts on this iconic marine ecosystem. Increased shipping
traffic, dredging activities, and the release of sediment and pollutants
have led to coral bleaching, damage to seagrass beds, and a decline in
biodiversity. Efforts are being made to mitigate these impacts through
stricter regulations and sustainable practices.
- Offshore Wind Farms in the North Sea: The rapid development of offshore wind farms in the North Sea has
raised concerns about their impact on marine life, particularly seabirds
and marine mammals. The construction noise, increased vessel traffic, and
potential disruption of migratory routes pose challenges to these
vulnerable species. Research and monitoring programs are being conducted
to assess and minimize these impacts while maximizing the renewable energy
potential.
- Port Expansion in Santos, Brazil: The
expansion of the Port of Santos, one of the busiest ports in Latin
America, has resulted in significant habitat loss and water pollution. The
construction of new terminals and dredging activities have impacted the
adjacent mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. Efforts are
underway to restore and protect these habitats and implement sustainable
practices to reduce pollution and minimize impacts on marine life.
- Land Reclamation in Singapore:
Singapore has undertaken extensive land reclamation projects to expand its
coastline and accommodate its growing population and economic needs.
However, these projects have resulted in the loss of natural coastal
habitats, including coral reefs and seagrass meadows. The destruction of
these habitats has had cascading effects on the marine ecosystem, impacting
the biodiversity and resilience of marine species.
- Panama Canal Expansion: The recent expansion of the Panama Canal to accommodate larger vessels has raised concerns about the potential impacts on marine life in the region. Increased vessel traffic, underwater noise, and the alteration of water flow patterns can disrupt the migration patterns of marine species such as whales and dolphins. Monitoring programs are in place to assess the impacts and implement mitigation measures.
Bibliography:
·
SPATIAL DATA INFRASTRUCTURES "THE MARINE
DIMENSION" Guidance for Hydrographic Offices Publication C-17 Second
Edition.
·
Oceanology: The True Account of the Voyage of
the Nautilus (Ologies) Hardcover – Lift the flap, August 25, 2009
· https://www.unep.org/resources/report/oil-and-gas-exploration
·
https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/city-and-architecture/a3146-the-manmade-islands-of-dubai/
·
The role of environmental impact assessment in
the sustainable artificial island development: A Qatar's Island case study
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Many other Sources from Google and hard cover
books
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