Marine sand and gravel – finding common ground
The Crown Estate supports fifth European Marine Sand and Gravel Group (EMSAGG) conference
CIRIA, the construction industry research and information association, has announced that the fifth European Marine Sand and Gravel Group (EMSAGG) conference: Marine sand and gravel - finding common ground will take place from 4–5 June 2015 in Delft, the Netherlands.
On day one of the conference speakers will highlight recent developments in the dredging industry, discuss current challenges and opportunities across Europe, and explore the role of a responsible dredging industry in moving towards a sustainable outcome.
As well as looking at new technologies and developments in the exploration and extraction of marine environments and aggregates, marine spatial planning, and the EU Marine Strategy Framework, the conference will explore the social and environmental impacts of the dredging industry, and examine the challenges and opportunities of moving towards sustainable gravel extraction.
Day two will include a presentation and tour on the Sand Engine/Sand Motor, south of the Hague, to demonstrate a pioneering approach to coastal management.
The headline sponsor for this year’s conference is The Crown Estate, which owns most of the sand and gravel resources off the UK coast and awards agreements for commercial extraction.
Nick Everington, portfolio manager at The Crown Estate, said: ‘Offshore sand and gravel resources are increasingly playing a crucial role in development, whether it’s supplying the building industry, supporting port infrastructure or enabling climate change adaptation through coastline management.
‘We are, therefore, pleased to be supporting this timely conference for the marine aggregates industry, as it brings together leading professionals from across Europe to discuss how we meet future demand and ensure the responsible management of this resource over the long term.’
For more information about the conference or to register visit: www.ciria.org/emsagg
