CONTEXT

Each year, millions of tonnes of marine sediments are dredged from ports and waterways across the Atlantic Area to maintain safe navigation and economic activity. Traditionally, these materials are treated as waste and largely disposed of at sea, these sediments are now at the centre of significant environmental, regulatory and territorial challenges. 

OUR AIM

SED’UP proposes a different path: transforming dredged marine sediments into local and valuable resources through circular economy strategies. By combining research and innovation, market-driven solutions, and pilot actions, the project promotes the development of sustainable value chains and practical alternatives to sea disposal.

SED'UP APPROACH

Through a transnational and multidisciplinary approach, SED’UP connects ports, local authorities, businesses, researchers and communities to co-create solutions that are environmentally responsible, economically viable and socially accepted. 

The project supports the emergence of circular economy loops, particularly in construction, landscaping and urban development, helping territories turn dredged sediments into locally available resources and a strategic pillar of territorial development.

With pilot actions in Cork Harbour (Ireland) and Morlaix (France), SED’UP moves from experimentation to large-scale structuring, delivering concrete, replicable solutions for sustainable sediment management across Atlantic coastal regions.