Coastal land reclamation: A glimpse into today’s urban development strategies

Coastal land reclamation is on the rise and is expected to remain a popular urban development strategy in regions experiencing urban growth. This trend is highlighted in a study titled "Mapping 21st Century Global Coastal Land Reclamation," which examined Landsat satellite imagery spanning from 2000 to 2020. The study aimed to quantify the extent, scale, and land utilization of urban coastal reclamation across 135 cities globally, all of which have populations exceeding one million.

The study's key findings reveal that a significant 78% of these cities have turned to reclamation as a means to generate additional land, resulting in the creation of 253,000 hectares of new territory. To put this in perspective, this area is equivalent to the size of Luxembourg. Land reclamation involves the process of generating new land from the sea and is frequently employed in areas facing land scarcity and high population density. Various regions, including Western Europe, West Africa, the Middle East, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, engage in this practice to expand ports, establish residential and commercial spaces, and create industrial zones with the aim of developing tourist attractions and green areas.

The driving forces behind this trend, such as global trade and swift urbanization, have become commonplace. Consequently, these cities are looking to take the next step by undertaking ambitious place-making endeavors to elevate their international reputation.

“Coastal land reclamation is a forward-looking approach to urban development,” says Architect Ian Fulgar, the principal architect of Fulgar Architects. It allows cities to preserve valuable ecosystems and resources from urban sprawl by expanding spaces without encroaching on existing natural land. More importantly for architects, urban planners, and modern city dwellers, it presents an opportunity to have purpose-built urban environments specifically designed to meet their needs.

“Architects and urban planners can design sustainable and efficient infrastructure with a blank canvas, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices in urban planning. This approach can lead to more resilient and adaptive cities capable of mitigating the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges,” adds Architect Fulgar.

Cities that lead coastal land reclamation

Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong, says Architect Fulgar, are some of the world’s most notable cities with impressive urban reclamation projects. “Not only have they transformed their respective landscapes but also captured global attention,” he says.

Photo credit to Anastasia Yudin. An aerial shot of Flower Dome in Singapore.

Singapore's Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay serve as concrete examples of the nation's dedication to pushing boundaries in terms of innovation and environmental responsibility. The former stands as a lavish integrated resort renowned for its role in reshaping Singapore's coastline and urban panorama. In a similar vein, the latter represents an exceptionally distinctive horticultural marvel that harmonizes art, science, and the natural world. These endeavors involving reclaimed land not only enhance Singapore's global standing but also contribute to an increase in real estate valuation within the vicinity.

For some parts of the United Arab Emirates, coastal land reclamation has significantly changed its geography. Dubai, which has completely transformed into an ultramodern city, features ambitious projects now known as some of the most recognizable developments in the world like Palm Jumeirah and The World. “They have reshaped the coastline and established the city as a leader in innovative development, significantly elevating Dubai’s real estate value and worldwide interest,” says Architect Fulgar.

Photo credit to Abid Bin Nazar. An aerial view of Palm Jumeirah.

Palm Jumeirah stands as a mesmerizing man-made archipelago fashioned into the likeness of a palm tree, producing a stunning visual when observed from above. Within its expanse, one encounters Dubai's opulent hotels, residential spaces, and entertainment venues. Similarly, The World presents an innovative venture featuring compact artificial islands configured to resemble a global map. Furthermore, Hong Kong underscores its dedication to the preservation of art, culture, and an ongoing commitment to sustainable urban advancement through the West Kowloon Cultural District. This sprawling 40-hectare site, reclaimed along the waterfront of Victoria Harbour, is earmarked as the city's dynamic cultural hub. Within this district, the local artistic community finds an arena for interaction, growth, and collaborative pursuits aligned with principles of sustainability. Architect Fulgar, a proponent of creating environments that foster unity and a sense of belonging, accentuates the shared elements among Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong in their triumphant urban reclamation ventures. These shared factors encompass visionary design and planning, a resolute emphasis on sustainability and the betterment of culture and society, all culminating in the subsequent augmentation of real estate worth.

“These projects have created iconic and visually striking landscapes by pushing the boundaries of engineering and urban design. Sustainability is often at the forefront, integrating practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” says Architect Fulgar on these cities’ commitment to sustainability atop function and aesthetics.

Best practices of coastal land reclamation

Despite recognition of world-class reclamation projects, one of their primary challenges is facing criticism and potential issues over sustainability concerns. Architect Fulgar shares that the solution is through the responsibility of vital stakeholders to adopt a collaborative approach and adaptive strategies in implementing best practices, such as prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience goals in waterfront developments.

“The future of city development, especially in coastal areas, rests with stakeholders prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience. By adopting a comprehensive, collaborative, and adaptable strategy, they can transform the design, construction, and management of waterfront development – ultimately creating more sustainable, resilient, and prospering urban environments that benefit both people and the environment,” adds Architect Fulgar.

Moreover, Architect Fulgar puts emphasis on a well-planned project that begins with the developers’ thorough research and analysis of the selected area about potential environmental impacts, disaster risks, and local community needs. Architects and engineers need to incorporate sustainable design principles and green and blue spaces to reduce the development's environmental footprint.

“Trends and insights on global reclamation illustrate the potential of reclamation projects in addressing various urban development, environmental conservation, and community well-being needs – leading to more sustainable and resilient urban planning worldwide. By adopting these lessons and focusing on sustainable growth, the Philippines can capitalize on its potential and carve a path to a brighter future.”