Wetlands for resilience restoring port Abu Qir

Dredging International (DEME) engaged The Weather Makers to develop a Nature-Based Solution (NBS) for the Abu Qir Port Project in Egypt. Instead of conventional land reclamation, we proposed transforming the Eastern Reclamation area into a thriving wetland habitat—providing coastal protection while enhancing local ecology.

A living buffer for water quality and stability

The wetland acts as a natural filter during construction, capturing fine sediments and preventing water quality degradation. These capped fines form the foundation for a fertile, self-sustaining ecosystem, stabilizing the reclaimed land while reducing environmental impact.

Smarter construction for long-term resilience

Integrated into a risk-averse execution method, this approach minimizes sediment spill and protects marine ecosystems. The flexible design adapts to the natural behavior of disposed materials, ensuring stability with less reliance on rock reinforcements—achieving significant material savings without compromising performance.

Planting for long-term impact

A tailored planting strategy introduces halophytes—salt-tolerant plants and grasses—across 20% of the habitat at the outset, with full ecosystem coverage expected within five years. This creates a thriving wetland that strengthens biodiversity, enhances coastal resilience, and integrates sustainability into port development.

Smart design meets sustainable impact—turning reclamation into regeneration.