The Working with Nature philosophy is a general approach proposed by PIANC for a broad range of types of projects. This paper discusses an interpretation of the WwN principles specifically applied to recreational navigation infrastructure, which have been presented elsewhere and will be considered for inclusion in the re-launch of PIANC WG 148.
This presentation intends to show how WwN provides a simple framework that - if used adequately - can facilitate the timely consideration of environmental and social issues to achieve sustainable and resilient design of recreational navigation infrastructure.
Selected marina projects in Latin America and the Caribbean illustrate that these principles or design tools have been proposed or implemented in the region in the past. This review unveils practical recommendations for marina design based on the WwN principles, which are based on demonstrating the added value to the project. It further demonstrates that the proposed approach is viable in the region.
Sustainable marina design is seen with scepticism by some and implemented poorly by others. But this framework, along with the systematic use of best practices in marina design and cross-pollination of broad international experience, can lead to sustainable marinas.