Coastal land
reclamation is increasing and will continue to grow and be a popular urban
strategy in places that experience urban growth.
This is according to
a study, “Mapping 21st Century Global Coastal Land Reclamation,” that analyzed
landsat satellite images from 2000 to 2020 to quantify spatial extent, scale,
and land use of urban coastal reclamation of 135 cities globally with
populations exceeding one million. Key findings indicate that 78% of these
cities have turned to reclamation to create additional land, resulting in
253,000 hectares of new land, an area equivalent to Luxembourg.
Land reclamation is
the process of creating new land from the sea. It’s often used in places with
scarcity of land and high population density for many purposes. From Western
Europe and West Africa to the Middle East, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, these
countries’ cities reclaim lands for port extension, residential/commercial, and
industrial purposes aimed at creating tourist and green spaces. Key drivers
like global trade and rapid urbanization are already ubiquitous, so for the
next step, these cities desire prestigious place-making efforts and enhanced
international reputation.
“Coastal land
reclamation is a forward-looking approach to urban development,” says Architect Ian Fulgar, the principal
architect of Fulgar
Architects. It allows cities to preserve valuable ecosystems
and resources from urban sprawl by expanding spaces without encroaching on
existing natural land. More importantly for architects, urban planners, and
modern city dwellers, it presents an opportunity to have purpose-built urban
environments specifically designed to meet their needs.
“Architects and urban
planners can design sustainable and efficient infrastructure with a blank
canvas, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices in urban
planning. This approach can lead to more resilient and adaptive cities capable
of mitigating the effects of climate change and other environmental
challenges,” adds Architect Fulgar.
Cities that lead coastal land reclamation
Singapore, Dubai, and
Hong Kong, says Architect Fulgar, are some of the world’s most notable cities
with impressive urban reclamation projects. “Not only have they transformed
their respective landscapes but also captured global attention,” he says.
Photo credit to Anastasia Yudin. An aerial shot of Flower Dome in Singapore.
Singapore’s Marina
Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are testaments to the city-state’s commitment
to innovation and sustainability. The former is a luxury integrated resort
famed for transforming Singapore’s coastline and city skyline, whereas the
latter is a spectacularly unique horticultural destination that combines art,
science, and nature. These reclaimed land developments further boost the
country’s international reputation and real estate value around the area.
For some parts of the
United Arab Emirates, coastal land reclamation has significantly changed its
geography. Dubai, which has completely transformed into an ultramodern city,
features ambitious projects now known as some of the most recognizable
developments in the world like Palm Jumeirah and The World. “They have reshaped
the coastline and established the city as a leader in innovative development,
significantly elevating Dubai’s real estate value and worldwide interest,” says
Architect Fulgar.
Photo credit to Abid
Bin Nazar. An aerial view of Palm Jumeirah.
Palm Jumeirah is an
awe-inspiring artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree when viewed from
above. It houses some of Dubai’s luxury hotels, residences, and entertainment
venues. Likewise, The World is a groundbreaking project composed of small
artificial islands in the shape of a world map.
Lastly, Hong Kong’s
commitment to preserved art, culture, and ongoing sustainable urban development
is exemplified by its West Kowloon Cultural District. It is a 40-hectare
reclaimed site along Victoria Harbour’s waterfront designated as the city’s
vibrant cultural quarter where the local arts scene can interact, develop, and
collaborate throughout its sustainability principles.
Architect Fulgar, who
firmly believes in creating spaces that foster belonging and unity, highlights
that Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong share common denominators in their
successful urban reclamation projects. These are innovative design and
planning, focus on sustainability and commitment to cultural and societal
development, and the subsequent increase in real estate value.
“These projects have
created iconic and visually striking landscapes by pushing the boundaries of
engineering and urban design. Sustainability is often at the forefront,
integrating practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and
enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” says Architect Fulgar
on these cities’ commitment to sustainability atop function and aesthetics.
Best practices of coastal land reclamation
Despite recognition
of world-class reclamation projects, one of their primary challenges is facing
criticism and potential issues over sustainability concerns. Architect Fulgar
shares that the solution is through the responsibility of vital stakeholders to
adopt a collaborative approach and adaptive strategies in implementing best
practices, such as prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience goals in
waterfront developments.
“The future of city
development, especially in coastal areas, rests with stakeholders prioritizing
sustainability and disaster resilience. By adopting a comprehensive,
collaborative, and adaptable strategy, they can transform the design,
construction, and management of waterfront development – ultimately creating
more sustainable, resilient, and prospering urban environments that benefit both
people and the environment,” adds Architect Fulgar.
Moreover, Architect
Fulgar puts emphasis on a well-planned project that begins with the developers’
thorough research and analysis of the selected area about potential
environmental impacts, disaster risks, and local community needs. Architects
and engineers need to incorporate sustainable design principles and green and
blue spaces to reduce the development's environmental footprint.
“Trends and insights
on global reclamation illustrate the potential of reclamation projects in
addressing various urban development, environmental conservation, and community
well-being needs – leading to more sustainable and resilient urban planning
worldwide. By adopting these lessons and focusing on sustainable growth, the
Philippines can capitalize on its potential and carve a path to a brighter
future.”
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