Egypt studies offshore sand pumping to protect coastlines from climate change

Egypt is studying the use of offshore sand pumping technology for the first time as part of efforts to strengthen coastal protection against climate change, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hany Swailem said on Thursday.

The proposal, which is under technical review, would use marine dredging and sand pumping systems to replenish eroding beaches and reinforce coastal defences, the ministry said in a statement.

Swailem said the initiative forms part of the ministry’s Second-Generation Water Management System 2.0 strategy, which aims to expand the use of advanced technologies to strengthen climate resilience and modernise water infrastructure.

“Coastal protection is one of the key pillars of Egypt’s climate adaptation strategy,” Swailem said, citing growing risks from shoreline erosion, sea level rise, and seawater intrusion into groundwater.

He said any decision to adopt the technology would be based on comprehensive technical, economic, environmental, and social feasibility studies.

The ministry will assess the availability and quality of offshore sand resources, implementation and maintenance costs, and the environmental and social impacts of beach nourishment projects to determine whether the technology is suitable for different coastal locations.

Swailem said climate change was increasing pressure on Egypt’s coastlines, making it necessary to evaluate advanced engineering solutions that could improve the resilience of vulnerable areas.

The ministry said the project forms part of broader efforts to protect coastal communities, infrastructure and investments while supporting Egypt’s climate adaptation objectives.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English