Resource-efficient cascading approach to recycle dredged sediments (Re-SET)

Dredging is periodically required to maintain coastal aquatic ecosystems. Conventional disposal methods of dumping and landfilling are commonly used for the dredged sediments. However, these methods are unsustainable and could create negative environmental impacts in the long term.

The recovery of valuables from sediments to be used as secondary raw materials can greatly reduce such impacts and the mining of primary resources, to contribute towards achieving sustainable goals and circular economies.

This project aims to minimize the adverse environmental impact and increase the optimal use of huge volumes of dredged coastal sediments as resources in a beneficial way. Various recycling routes for dredged sediments to become useful materials will be experimentally investigated. The produced materials will be characterized and evaluated for their properties and long-term toxicity.

Techno-economic analysis will be performed with assistance of process simulation to scale-up and optimize the concepts, followed by the life cycle assessment of sustainability and climate impacts.

This study will finally draft a cascading strategy for beneficially recycling dredged sediments with consideration of their composition, treatment technologies, final products, potential applications, environmental and climate impacts. The project will be carried out in close collaboration of academic partners and a network of societal partners.