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Environment and development in coastal regions and in small islands |
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Environment and development in coastal regions and in small islands |
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CSI papers 1
Environmental Effects of Sand Extraction Practices in Puerto Rico
Pedro A. Gelabert,
Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, Puerto Rico
Abstract
Over the past four decades, sand had been extracted from the beaches, sand dunes, alluvial floodplains and residual sandy soils in Puerto Rico. This has resulted in accelerated beach erosion, among other impacts. The paper discusses various solutions to the problem of sand supply for the construction industry. Besides extraction from already utilized sources, other solutions are described: importation, manufactured sand, offshore deposits and substitute building materials. The paper recommends developing the offshore deposits and the use of manufactured sand.
