Transforming Dredging Practices for Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Systems

Coastal and estuarine systems are increasingly impacted by climate change, sea-level rise, and intensified human activities. Dredging remains essential for maintaining navigation, enabling offshore infrastructure, and supporting coastal protection. However, conventional dredging practices have often prioritised operational efficiency over long-term environmental sustainability. Recent developments point toward a transition in which dredging is redefined as a tool for system-scale solutions. Innovations such as zero-emission technologies, strategic sediment management, and integration with nature-based solutions are reshaping the role of dredging in coastal systems. At the same time, there is growing recognition of its potential to contribute to ecosystem restoration, biodiversity enhancement, and climate adaptation. This Research Topic builds on contributions from the CEDA Dredging Days 2026, organised by Central Dredging Association, and extends the discussion toward broader scientific and societal relevance.The goal of this Research Topic is to advance the transformation of dredging practices toward supporting sustainable and resilient ocean and coastal systems. It aims to bridge engineering, environmental, and management perspectives by highlighting innovative approaches that reduce environmental impact while enhancing system functionality. Contributions will showcase how dredging can enable nature-based solutions, support sediment system dynamics, and contribute to climate adaptation and mitigation, including decarbonisation pathways.In addition, the Topic seeks to move beyond individual case studies by promoting transferable knowledge, scalable solutions, and system-level understanding. Emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary approaches that integrate monitoring, modelling, and design to improve decision-making and long-term performance. By consolidating emerging research and practice, this collection aims to position dredging as a proactive and adaptive component of sustainable coastal development, rather than a purely operational activity.This Research Topic welcomes Original Research, Review, Mini Review, and Perspective articles addressing innovative dredging practices and their role in sustainable ocean and coastal systems. Relevant topics include, but are not limited to, decarbonisation and zero-emission dredging, sediment management strategies, integration of nature-based solutions, ecosystem restoration, biodiversity enhancement, and adaptive management approaches. Contributions on monitoring, modelling, and large-scale applications are particularly encouraged.Submissions should present novel insights and clearly demonstrate their relevance to system-scale sustainability. Case studies are welcome when they provide transferable methodologies or broader implications. Interdisciplinary work linking engineering, ecological, and societal dimensions is strongly encouraged. Topic editors: Jose A. A. Antolínez, Rudy Helmons Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/81137/transforming-dredging-practices-for-sustainable-ocean-and-coastal-systems