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Environmental solutions
Published on 11 Aug ‘25
Environmental Solutions in Action: Celebrating Water Quality Month
August water quality month

August is Water Quality Month. Our environmental solutions protect coastlines and waterways by controlling silt, foam, debris and oil spills. Whether it’s a marina, beach or infrastructure project, our mission stays the same: safer, cleaner and more sustainable waters.

Controlling silt to support coastal integrity

Silt can travel far from a work site during construction or dredging, clouding the water and affecting nearby shorelines. In areas full of tourists and resorts, that can impact water clarity, beach quality and the overall coastal experience.

Silt control at Six Senses The Palm development
Photo credit: Bower & Octant Engineering Consultancy, Six Senses The Palm

We recently deployed our silt control solutions at Six Senses The Palm, one of Dubai’s most iconic destinations. As part of the marine works for the development, our silt curtains were used to contain sediment at the source. The curtains help maintain clean, clear waters for surrounding beaches and resorts while minimising environmental impact.

Efficient sludge remediation during dredging project in the UK

Sludge remediation also plays a key role in dredging projects. On a project in the UK, our local partner used our Ecobag Dewatering Containers to manage sediment. They pumped sediment-laden water (called slurry) ashore through floating flexible pipes into these permeable containers. The fabric of the containers traps solids while water drains out, reducing turbidity and allowing for safe discharge of clean water.

After completing the dewatering process, dried sediment can be handled easily. It can be spread evenly over land and allows vegetation to grow back naturally. This method is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Dried silt can also be reused on-site as topsoil, for landscaping, planting beds, or even manure.

Stopping foam in its tracks

In 2025, global and regional regulations have accelerated the phase-out and strict control of hazardous foams used in marine operations. The focus is primarily on preventing marine pollution from foams containing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) compounds, like PFOS and PFOA.

From January 1, 2026, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will prohibit the use and storage of PFOS-based foams on all ships. Regulators will require shipowners to transition to fluorine-free alternatives and to safely collect and incinerate foam residues to protect marine ecosystems. These new rules are driving the adoption of advanced, environmentally compliant solutions in marine construction and vessel operations.

Foam control solutions Foam control solutions

On beaches, in marinas, harbors and industrial areas, foam on the water’s surface isn’t just unsightly, it’s often a sign of pollutants. Our foam control solutions, including foam containment booms, capture and contain foam before it spreads.

We also offer water quality monitoring through data buoys, giving real-time insights into water conditions.

Containing oil to protect water quality

Even when it’s not a large-scale spill, oil contamination in water poses a serious threat to marine life and water quality. At certain operational sites, the risk comes from smaller but continuous sources – leaks, runoff or residues – that can accumulate and spread if left unchecked.

In one recent project, our operations team isolated oil from water at a critical collection point. The goal was clear: keep the contaminant contained while allowing the site to operate as normal. We designed our solution for durability and high efficiency in challenging conditions. Watch the video below for a clear example of effective containment. Read the full case study here.

While this project focused on containment, we also provide hydrocarbon monitoring and deployable oil boom systems – including reels and racks. These can be delivered to sites quickly to manage ongoing risks.

https://youtu.be/_vyShasADMs?si=oyRRFqPc1MQ28Yyf

Protecting infrastructure from river debris

Floating debris in rivers can pose a serious threat to infrastructure, water quality and wildlife. At key locations, the risk comes from a mix of natural and man-made debris. Tree trunks, plastics and other materials can accumulate and cause problems, if left unchecked.

At the Tees Barrage in the UK, this challenge required careful management. The goal was to prevent debris from reaching critical structures, protect the river environment and maintain normal river operations. We designed our approach to be reliable, long-lasting and effective in all conditions.

Tees Barrage otters
Otters hunting, eating and socialising on the Tees Barrage

Discover how we managed this challenge here.

Building Blue Futures #BuildingBlueFutures

From silt and foam to debris and other pollutants, our environmental solutions focus on protecting water quality. This Water Quality Month, we’re highlighting how these solutions work in different settings to create cleaner, safer and more sustainable coastlines and waterways.

Want to learn more? Explore our full range of environmental solutions and see how we can help protect the coastlines and waterways you care about.

👉 Contact us today to discuss your project.

#WaterQualityMonth #siltcontrol #foamcontrol #oilcontainment #debriscontrol #sludgeremediation #ecocoast

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