Reducing the impacts of dredging

Disposal of dredging masses on land reduces the impacts of dredging on local water areas

The most significant of our actions to benefit the state of the Baltic Sea and the Archipelago Sea is the transition to the disposal of dredging masses on land from 2023 onwards. In practice, we have transitioned to land disposal, significantly reducing the impact of dredging activities on the nearby waters and the Airisto sea area.

Dredged materials are now being placed on the northern shore of Hirvensalo at Lauttaranta, which obtained an environmental permit in late 2020. By depositing the sediments from dredging into the existing reclaimed land, we can plan and construct a new, maritime residential area in the Latokari region.

Development of dredging activities allows us to reduce the impacts on the water system caused by dredging. It has great significance on the well-being of the organisms in the sea areas.

In addition to Lauttaranta, efforts will be made to promote the utilization of other potential sites in the future. A joint working group between the City of Turku and Turku Port has been initiated to explore the establishment of suitable disposal areas after Lauttaranta for future land disposal.

Proper wastewater treatment reduces water pollution

We reduce the burden on the waterways by providing vessels with easy and reliable methods for waste water treatment. The port has five fixed sewer connections for pumping waste water directly from vessels. In addition, smaller ships can take advantage of a tank truck that transfers waste water to a designated reception well. Regardless of method, all waste water ends up being properly treated by the Kakolanmäki wastewater treatment plant.