Coast protection
Coastal protection using tropical timbers like Greenheart, Basralocus, and Ekki as piles and planking offers effective and sustainable solutions for groynes and other marine structures. These hardwoods are prized for their exceptional durability, strength, and resistance to marine borers, making them ideal for coastal defense applications. They are extensively used in the construction of timber groynes, which are critical structures in sustainable sea defense designed to combat coastal erosion, by barriers extening from the beach into the sea, controlling sediment movement and stabilizing shorelines.
Sustainable structures
Sustainability is an important aspect when using timber for coastal protection. At Hupkes Wijma, we prioritize environmental responsibility in several ways:
- We source the vast majority of our timbers from FSC-certified forests, ensuring responsible management practices.
- We give reclaimed timbers a second life by incorporating them into new structures, reducing waste and resource consumption.
- Many coastal defense structures can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, further embodying the principles of true sustainability.
By focusing on sustainable sourcing, thoughtful design, and proper maintenance, we help coastal communities create effective, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly protection structures. This approach not only safeguards coastlines but also promotes responsible stewardship of our natural resources.
Tropical hardwoods
are essential in coastal protection structures, particularly in timber groynes. The key components include piles (square posts driven into the seabed), planking (horizontal barriers attached to piles), and king piles (extra-strong central supports). Species like Greenheart, Basralocus, and Ekki, offer significant advantages: exceptional durability against marine borers and fungi, high strength to withstand environmental forces, density to resist wave scouring, and natural aesthetic compatibility with coastal landscapes. These properties make tropical hardwoods ideal for long-lasting and effective coastal defense systems.
A sustainable solution
At Hupkes Wijma, we have the expertise required for wood products related to coast defence structures. We maintain a vast stock of wooden poles in suitable species, generally supplied with an FSC certificate. If you are interested in exploring how wooden piles and posts can enhance your project, we would be happy to discuss your requirements. Please do not hesitate to contact us and we look forward to helping you turn your ideas into reality.