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Published on: December 2, 2022
Nature-based solutions for improving navigation reliability on the Madeira River, Brazil
Burton C Suedel1, Renato Souza Amorim2, Timothy J Lauth1
1US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, Mississippi, USA.
This project uses nature-based solutions to improve Madeira River navigation, balancing ecological and social benefits. It leverages natural river processes for sustainable infrastructure development, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Hydrology
- Civil Engineering
Background:
- The Madeira River is one of the last undeveloped megarivers, exhibiting natural morphological processes.
- Existing navigation infrastructure is minimal, presenting an opportunity for sustainable development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a safe, reliable, and sustainable navigation channel in the Madeira River.
- To integrate nature-based solutions (NbS) into infrastructure development for communities and water resources.
Main Methods:
- Fluvial geomorphology analysis and hydrodynamic modeling to understand river behavior.
- Designing navigation improvements that leverage natural geomorphic processes.
- Prioritizing beneficial reuse of dredged sediment and using dynamic structures with local materials.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated successful application of NbS in shaping a navigation channel.
- Balanced navigation needs with ecological and social benefits through adaptive management.
- Leveraged natural river energy and stakeholder collaboration.
Conclusions:
- Nature-based approaches offer sustainable navigation improvements.
- NbS provide ecological and social benefits, aligning with UN SDGs and IUCN standards.
- This project showcases a practical model for integrating NbS into river infrastructure.
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