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Centre Point of Indonesia, Makassar Centre Point of Indonesia is an iconic 157-hectare land reclamation project for both the Makassar area and eastern Indonesia. It will be the first waterfront development in eastern Indonesia. The reclaimed land will be in the shape of the Garuda Bird, the national emblem of Indonesia, with the head and two wings visible from the air. The coastal zone of Makassar is characterised by soft soils, which present a challenge for the reclamation work. In order to cope with these conditions, the contractor will use an innovative spraying pontoon to build up the reclamation. Witteveen+Bos’ involvement in this project started with the preliminary design and continued with the preparation of the tender documents and assistance with the tendering process. Following the award of the contract, Witteveen+Bos extended its involvement by providing contract management and supervision during the construction phase under a Design & Build contract. Both technical assistance and construction supervision were approached from a risk-based perspective. At the end of March 2017, Witteveen+Bos Indonesia successfully chaired the kick-off meeting for the construction phase of the project. The design phase has been completed and our supervision team will take over from here. In addition to the original scope, Witteveen+Bos is currently also involved in the geotechnical monitoring of the existing adjacent reclamation project, a hydromorphological study on measures relating to sedimentation and improved water quality, and preparation of the basic design for a new reclamation. + timo.worm@witteveenbos.com
Consultancy contract for Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link The client consultancy contract for the Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link project has been awarded to Ramboll, Arup and TEC. This project involves the construction of a combined road and rail tunnel between Germany and Denmark. At 18 kilometres, it will be the longest sunken tunnel in the world. TEC (Tunnel Engineering Consultants) is a permanent joint venture between Royal HaskoningDHV and Witteveen+Bos. The Ramboll-Arup-TEC consortium will remain lead consultant to Femern A/S, the company responsible for the design and planning of the new tunnel and all associated work. Since April 2009, the consortium has been working on the design of the sunken tunnel. It has now won the client consultancy contract as well. The Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link will be one of the largest civil engineering projects in Danish history with an overall lead time of 15 years. The main construction phase will involve the input of over 70 full-time professionals from the consortium, who between them will contribute approximately one million manhours.
TEC has a specialist team on site to monitor the progress of the project, to evaluate working methods and the detailed designs, and to advise the client on all technical matters to ensure a safe, sustainable and future-proof result. ‘Winning the client consultancy contract is marvellous for us because it allows us to continue contributing our expertise to this extremely prestigious project,’ comments Hans de Wit, Managing Director of TEC. ‘The Fehmarn Belt project is very much in line with the TEC tradition, following on from our earlier challenging tunnel projects such as the Øresund Link in Denmark, the Busan-Geoje Fixed Link in South Korea and the Hong Kong– Zhuhai–Macau Bridge in China. The combination of Ramboll, Arup and TEC established an excellent track record during the design phase. I am pleased and proud that we are able to continue our collaboration during the implementation phase of this mega-project.’ + ron.van.beek@witteveenbos.com
Beeld: Corné Bastiaansen
PLANT 3D SOFTWARE FOR PIPING ENGINEERS
3D printing in Dubai On-site and under local conditions
Witteveen+Bos is investing in the development and application of 3D printing techniques in the construction industry, and wants to gain insight into innovative production methods and put them to use in our projects. In mid-2015, we therefore decided to take part in a large-scale study of 3D concrete printing at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). This research project is led by Theo Salet, professor of Concrete Structures at TU/e and senior partner at Witteveen+Bos. The results of the scientific research are already being applied in practice. Last year, for instance, Witteveen+Bos was commissioned to help engineer the world’s first on-site 3D printed building: an R&D laboratory for the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). Following a call for tenders, the project was awarded to local contractor Convrgnt, which commissioned the Dutch start-up company CyBe Construction B.V. to carry out 3D concrete printing on-site. Witteveen+Bos was responsible for the engineering of the 3D printed components. The laboratory building will be 12 metres wide, 12 metres long, and 5 metres tall. It will be realised at the construction site using a hybrid production method that combines 3D printing, robotic construction and traditional building methods. This approach has
Since 2007, Witteveen+Bos has been working alongside Waternet and STOWA to develop a filtration technology called 1-STEP® (One Step Total Effluent Polishing), which can be used in the post-purification of effluent at treatment plants. The current research, for which a laboratory-scale trial has been set up at Delft
+ amir.kaboli@witteveenbos.com
been chosen as the best way to build the structure as efficiently and safely as possible within the short period of time available. Buildings have already been constructed using 3D printing techniques in other parts of the world. However, all of these projects were realised under laboratory or factory conditions. The main challenge in the Dubai project is therefore the application of 3D printing on site, under the unforgiving local climate and weather conditions. In addition, no legislation or standards are currently in place to regulate the engineering of 3D printed components. The laboratory is expected to be completed by mid-2017. In a follow-up to this project, Witteveen+Bos and Dubai-based contractor Dubox have joined forces to develop printable concepts that can be applied in the local construction industry. The joint venture is working on a number of innovative solutions, including a mobile 3D concrete printing laboratory that was showcased at the first Global Manufacturing and Industrialisation Summit, which was held from 27 through to 30 March 2017 in Abu Dhabi. The summit opening was attended by various dignitaries including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Emir of Dubai. + jordy.vos@witteveenbos.com
Extra treatment phase to remove drugs from wastewater Domestic wastewater often contains traces of the medications that people take. In January 2017, Witteveen+Bos, Delft University of Technology, Nijhuis Water Technology, STOWA and Waternet launched a laboratoryscale research project to test an innovative new method of removing this form of contamination. It is based on ‘ozone and active carbon filtration’ (O3GAC), applied as an additional step in the treatment process to convert micropollutants such as pharmaceutical residues into harmless substances.
An Autodesk software package called Plant 3D was recently installed at the Witteveen+Bos office in Atyrau, Kazakhstan. The software enables piping engineers to improve the quality of their piping and plant designs in less time. Besides piping and equipment, Plant 3D is also suitable for engineering civil structures such as roads, underground piping, buildings, platforms, stairs, ladders and foundations. After a design is completed, the 3D model can be converted to Navisworks and checked for clashes. The results can be presented to clients and stakeholders using virtual reality glasses. Plant 3D is based on Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology. Engineering companies in Kazakhstan have been required to use BIM technology since 2016.
University of Technology, examines the potential of active carbon filtration (O3GAC) as a means of removing micropollutants even more effectively. O3GAC technology is termed a ‘triple barrier’ and relies on oxidation, adsorption and biological (active) filtration. Ozone is used to break down micropollutants into even smaller particles. As yet, it has not been possible to replicate this process in a fullscale 1-STEP® installation. Adsorption and biological conversion take place within the activated carbon filter unit, which minimises emissions of any by-products. There is to be a follow-up study to examine whether it is possible to simultaneously remove nitrogen and phosphate compounds from wastewater. If the laboratory trials at Delft University of Technology prove successful, a full-scale demonstration project will be launched in autumn at the Horstermeer wastewater treatment plant, where the 1-STEP® filtration method has been successfully applied for several years. The filter unit’s treatment performance and the design principles can then be tested in practice. Witteveen+Bos is the lead partner in the project and will oversee the demonstration phase. The system is also to be trialled for three months at a Belgian treatment plant operated by Aquafin, and at a German site operated by Wasserverband Eifel-Rur. The objective is to learn from the experiences gained at other treatment plants, to investigate the international potential of this technology, and to promote knowledge-sharing. + arjan.dekker@witteveenbos.com
GOOD COMPANY RESULTS IN 2016 The revenue realised by international engineering and consultancy firm Witteveen+Bos N.V. continues to show an upward trend, from nearly EUR 130 million in 2015 to EUR 137 million in 2016. The net result amounted to EUR 15.7 million, demonstrating the company’s financial health. The Board of Directors and the Supervisory Board – which was appointed for the first time in 2016 – both look back on a successful anniversary year. Managing Director Karin Sluis is pleased with the company’s results: ‘Healthy financial results are an important precondition that enables us to contribute to the realisation of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, from clean drinking water to renewable energy and resilient infrastructure. We can achieve the greatest impact through our projects. In 2016 we therefore devoted extensive attention to the application of our sustainable design principles. We use this tool in all our projects to flesh out the possibilities for applying the ‘Building with Nature’ approach, as well as climate adaptation, circular design and stakeholder engagement. In addition, we promote diversity and talent development within the organisation and thus contribute to the Sustainable Development Goal of decent work and economic growth.’ Ongoing efforts to make the company’s business operations more sustainable resulted, among other things, in realisation of the CO₂ emissions reduction target for 2016. The firm is on track to achieve its overall target of 30 % emissions reduction by 2020 (compared to reference year 2007). Witteveen+Bos also retained full certification (in the form of the CO₂ Awareness Certificate) at Level 5 of the CO₂ Performance Ladder. + communications@witteveenbos.com
Image: Rijkswaterstaat
Knowledge, expertise and quality Stephan van der Biezen, the new director of Witteveen+Bos
The nomination of Stephan van der Biezen (born 1970) as director of Witteveen+Bos N.V. was confirmed by the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. He therefore joins Managing Director Karin Sluis to form the Board of Directors with effect from 5 April 2017. Stephan succeeds Henk Nieboer, who is stepping down after eleven years in the position. The company’s articles of association stipulate that a director must make way for a successor in the year he or she reaches the age of 55. Henk Nieboer will continue his long association with Witteveen+Bos as a senior consultant, while devoting two days a week to his role as director of the Ecoshape foundation. Stephan van der Biezen studied hydraulic engineering at Delft University of Technology, graduating in 1995. He then joined the university’s Coastal Engineering research group, specialising in international issues. ‘Many graduates used to work in splendid isolation,’ he recalls. ‘I decided to promote teamwork by setting up a Morphology study group. It is in my nature to seek connections and to build knowledge by working together. They were good times. However, I wanted to put my knowledge into practice, so in 1998 I decided to make the move into the private sector.’ The choice fell to Witteveen+Bos, where Stephan became involved in computer modelling. ‘At that time, very few engineering consultancies used numerical models to study the effects of currents and waves. Most still relied on physical scale models and empirical principles, ‘rules of thumb’ in other words. Computer modelling has come on by leaps and bounds since then. We now work with several advanced systems such as XBeach, which we used to assess the effectiveness of Belgium’s coastal defences. We enjoy a very strong position in this field, largely due to our focus on knowledge and quality. We also have a firm basis which we continue to expand by training and coaching young engineers.’ ‘Listening and connecting are important to me,’ Stephan continues. ‘In my work, I like to involve other people at the earliest possible stage. The first major project I worked on was the design of artificial islands in the Caspian Sea. People would come to me with all sorts of questions. My role was to introduce them to the people with the answers. That is what I mean by ‘connecting’. It is a question of knowing what everyone can contribute and how they can help each other. I dealt with Kazakh engineers working for our project partner NIPIneftegaz, their counterparts at WorleyParsons and Shell, many of whom were British, and the Italian ingenieri from
Agip. My experience as liaison engineer in London and Milan proved very useful. I was a junior at the time, but I was working alongside some very senior engineers in the oil and gas industry. That could have been rather intimidating, but I knew that I understood the project and I could listen well. That is how I earned their respect. That project did much to establish the very strong reputation we now enjoy in Kazakhstan.’ In 2007, Stephan became head of the Coasts, Rivers and Land Reclamation PMC. He was also involved in projects such as Maasvlakte 2, the Hondsbossche & Pettemer Sea Dike and the Bangladesh Delta Plan. Stephan is proud of them all. ‘Take Bangladesh for example. It has a population of 160 million and every year some 60 % to 80 % of its land area is flooded. We’re talking about the future of an entire country and millions of people. That is a huge incentive to produce a good plan which not only provides for flood protection but also safeguards water quality and the availability of fresh water. Our long-term vision includes future management and maintenance based on a ‘climate-robust’ approach. The project team is made up of Dutch experts from a number of different companies, as well as local experts representing various disciplines. Their input is essential in order to create the necessary local support. We can come up with a wonderful plan but if the decision-makers in Bangladesh are not behind it, it will never be implemented.’
committees which bring together the ‘golden triangle’ of private-sector companies, knowledge institutes and publicsector authorities. I consider the international dimension to be very important, too. There is stiff international competition in all water-related disciplines. How should the Netherlands respond? Cooperation is absolutely essential if we are to establish the necessary connections and play a winning game.’ Lastly, Stephan stresses the importance of authenticity, ‘not only as individuals but as Witteveen+Bos. There can be no false modesty. We must tell the world that we are experts in what we do, and that we are reliable and committed partners. And we must constantly work to ensure that this is indeed the case.’ + communications@witteveenbos.com
As a director, Stephan intends to set a course for the future and invites everyone to join him. At this stage, he considers the process to be more important than having a clear-cut vision. ‘I want to build upon the existing strategy, which is largely based on our corporate culture. This is the secret of our success; it has brought us where we are today. In our culture, everyone participates and everyone contributes. Knowledge, expertise and quality are all very important. These factors, in combination with enterprise, form my incentive to excel. I am pleased and proud when I see that other people feel the same way. Our ownership structure is also a very strong connecting factor, and I look forward to exploring ways in which our international offices can become more involved.’ Stephan feels a strong sense of responsibility for maintaining the position of Dutch engineering consultancies in relation to the knowledge institutes and government. ‘We all need each other if we are to innovate, train new talent and continue to meet society’s demand for a safe and secure living and working environment. I intend to play my part, both here and within the Dutch Association of Consulting Engineers (NLingenieurs). I have long been a member of various
Witteveen+Bos Nieuws mei 2017
Planning and design of cycling infrastructure in Singapore Witteveen+Bos and Singapore-based design and engineering consultancy Surbana Jurong are planning and designing the cycling network in the city’s Ang Mo Kio district for Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA). The project aims to create a cycling network that will enable the district’s 175,000 residents to cycle safely and comfortably, setting an example for all of Singapore. Asian megacities have been designed for motorised traffic. Due to increased prosperity and intensive use of available space, road congestion is rapidly approaching critical levels. For that reason, Singapore has been
actively pursuing a policy to discourage car ownership and to promote alternative modes of transport. To achieve that aim, the government is communicating a vision and campaign to turn Singapore into a ‘car-lite’ city. This vision involves promoting public transport, cycling and walking. The LTA selected the densely populated Ang Mo Kio district as a model town for this strategy. In the pre-design phase, Witteveen+Bos draws on its Dutch cycling infrastructure expertise as well as experience gained in Singapore. In the final design phase, local engineers will contribute to taking the designs a step further under Witteveen+Bos’ supervision. A unique feature of our
Smarter travelling in Inverness Active travel is a hot topic in Scotland, with the Scottish Government’s transport minister, Humza Yousaf reiterating a nationwide ambition of achieving 10 % of trips by pedal-cycle by 2020. In 2016, Scottish local authorities were invited to submit detailed funding proposals to develop high quality infrastructure for walking and cycling. In January 2017 The Highland Council recommissioned Witteveen+Bos UK to develop a renewed funding bid to deliver parts of the Inverness City Active Travel Network.
The renewed bid makes a commitment to adding further detail to the original 2016 concept drawings, including technical feasibility, landscape architecture and junction design. Witteveen+Bos UK reiterated its client’s commitment to building a network fit for the future of the City of Inverness, using Dutch design principles. Witteveen+Bos’ proposals included a robust communications, smarter-travel and engagement strategy which will be implemented even before the bid is submitted, to ensure that the public and stakeholders are part of the process.
Witteveen+Bos News June 2017
approach is the spatial analysis that enables us to decide how to design cycle routes and crossings in the existing densely built-up environment. The envisioned increase in cycle usage will also be factored in, even at this early stage, by identifying upgrade options.‘We are immensely proud that Witteveen+Bos was selected as a specialist in cycling infrastructure, and to have been given the opportunity to contribute to the development of Singapore’s walking and cycling infrastructure,’ says Martijn Akkerman, cycling infrastructure, planning and design expert at Witteveen+Bos. + martijn.akkerman@witteveenbos.com
Inverness is competing against strong and highly innovative proposals, including a Trondheim-style cycle lift in Edinburgh and a new cycling route in Glasgow. But the proposed true Dutch designs will be the first seen anywhere outside of London and Cambridge, and will incorporate a turbo roundabout, a ‘fietsstraat’ (cycle street) and varying degrees of segregation of cycles from other traffic. Particular attention will be given to incorporating major improvements to walkability and access for disabled pedestrians and cyclists. As a result of its renewed bid, the municipality has been shortlisted in the five programmes to be taken forward for funding in the 2017 programme. A combination of Community Links PLUS funding and match funding from a range of other sources will enable delivery of a step change in the ambition and quality of infrastructure that puts the City of Inverness ahead of almost every other municipality in the UK. The municipality has been awarded £40,000 to develop its 2017 bid, which is due for submission in June.
+ richard.lewis@witteveenbos.com
PREFAB HIGH-RISE IN SINGAPORE
RESTORATION OF CORAL REEF OFF KOTOK
The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in Singapore has asked Theo Salet to join its International Panel of Experts. Theo will participate in workshops and attend meetings with government agencies, research institutes and privatesector companies on the subject of prefab construction. The transition from on-site construction to the assembly of high-quality prefabricated units has attracted much interest. The objective is to increase efficiency and productivity in the construction industry. Witteveen+Bos has assisted local contractor Tiong Seng and consultancy firm Meinhardt in producing the tender for a 44-storey and 163-metre-tall residential building. There may be a follow-up if the contract is indeed awarded to Tiong Seng.
Pulau Seribu is an island group off the coast of Jakarta. Its ecology is under severe pressure due to pollution, over-fishing and tourism. Since 2014, Witteveen+Bos has supported the Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN) which runs a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre on the island of Kotok. Here, coastal erosion threatens the beaches on which turtles nest and lay their eggs, while fishing is severely damaging the coral reef. Based on our design and using locally sourced materials, large numbers of volunteers have made and erected groynes which keep the sand in place and help to restore the beaches. In another project, an innovative technique is being used to promote coral growth. Coral is attached to metal propagation frames which are lowered into the sea. An electric current generated by small photovoltaic cells is then passed through them, resulting in the accumulation of calcium carbonate. This is readily absorbed by the coral, which then grows five times more quickly. The frames also act as buffers, protecting the coastline from the pounding of the waves. This helps to create new habitats. Just over a month into the project, divers found the coral to be thriving – a good indication of rapid growth potential. Monitoring will continue for several years. There has been significant interest from marine contractors because coral restoration after a civil engineering project is a timeconsuming and expensive process.
+ theo.salet@witteveenbos.com
THE VALUE OF RAINFORESTS The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) has commissioned Witteveen+Bos to conduct a study of the ecosystem services provided by the rainforest of Borneo. This extensive area is of immense significance to millions of people by virtue of the many ecosystem services and products it supports. However, its role as a habitat for orang-utans and a source of local drinking water is now under threat due to deforestation. Our study will help to raise awareness of the value of the ecosystem services provided by the rainforest and will form a basis for more sustainable land usage. + anne.nobel@witteveenbos.com
SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN IVORY COAST Witteveen+Bos is working on the Abidjan Sustainable Urban Development project in Ivory Coast. The project has five main components: - Sustainable urban development: planned and controlled growth of Abidjan and surrounding region - Air quality: monitoring air quality and reduction of emissions, particularly from road traffic - Sustainable urban infrastructure: improved sustainable mobility (public transport and slow-moving traffic) and climate adaptation measures to mitigate the risk of flooding and erosion - Waste management: consultancy services for a pilot project involving the construction of a composting plant - Capacity building and knowledge management for government agencies at all levels
+ victor.coenen@witteveenbos.com
To date, Witteveen+Bos has organised various stakeholder workshops, conducted several analyses and has held meetings with ministries, government agencies and local stakeholders. The concrete output from these activities includes a funding application which enjoys broad support, a ‘climate stress test’ and various ‘Terms of reference’ documents for activities for which funding is to be sought. A local partner was able to provide valuable assistance on a number of points. The project is part of the Sustainable Cities initiative being run under the auspices of the Global Environmental Facility. Funding is channelled through various international agencies, including the African Development Bank. Potential beneficiaries must list and describe the project activities for which funding is sought. The Global Environment Facility approved the funding application prepared by Witteveen+Bos in December 2016. + leon.valkenburg@witteveenbos.com
NEW SERIES OF PERMEABLE DAMS
NEW RESORT IN NORTH SULAWESI
NOISE AND VIBRATION STUDY FOR SINGAPORE RAIL LINE
Sulawesi, formerly known as Celebes, is the third largest island of the Indonesian archipelago. It has very varied scenery, including mountains, volcanic ridges, rain forests and magnificent rice terraces. A new resort is currently under development on the northern coast, approximately one hour’s drive from the capital, Manado. Witteveen+Bos was retained to prepare the designs and budgets for the beach areas and lagoons. We will also advise on the construction of moorings for the boats that will take divers to the beautiful coral reefs off the coast. Two recent site visits provided a good picture of the current situation. Following discussion with the client and the architect, our initial designs have now been incorporated into the master plan. Such constructive cooperation will maximise the potential of the resort.
Singapore’s Land Transport Authority has commissioned Witteveen+Bos South-East Asia to conduct a groundborne noise and vibration study for the eastern leg of the Cross Island Line (CRLe). The Cross Island Line (CRL) is a 56-km-long Mass Rapid Transport Line from Jurong in the west of Singapore to Changi in the east. The CRLe leg will have a length of 35.5 km and will be built entirely underground. The study aims to prevent any nuisance due to groundborne noise and vibrations during the operational phase of the CRLe line. Several types of vibration measurements will be performed, as well as site surveys to identify sensitive receivers. Predictions of expected noise and vibration levels in surrounding buildings during the operational phase of the future CRLe line will be carried out using general assessment models, as well as detailed 3D finite element models. Where necessary, mitigating measures will be suggested, studied and incorporated into the design of the CRLe project. In this project, Witteveen+Bos will collaborate with DECL Singapore Pte Ltd and ISVR Consulting. DECL Singapore is a geotechnical in-situ testing and monitoring company, whereas ISVR Consulting is the consultancy wing of the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research at the University of Southampton.
+ wouter.bijman@witteveenbos.com
+ eliam.vlijm@witteveenbos.com
The ‘Building with Nature’ project in Demak, a region of central Java, has been in progress for two years. Local residents are building a series of permeable dams around their villages. Motivation is high because sedimentation is now clearly visible behind the dams built only last year. Large areas of land dry out when water levels are low. The spatial design for the area was completed by Witteveen+Bos, Deltares, Wetlands International and other Ecoshape partners in the summer of 2016, whereupon the tender was submitted. A local contractor arranged for the transport of the construction materials and is coordinating the work to ensure that everything runs to schedule. A representative of the consortium is on hand to monitor day-to-day progress, with the project proceeding at pace. Other partners are responsible for training activities and projects involving fish and shrimp farming. The consortium’s enthusiasm was boosted by the award of the prestigious ‘Vernufteling’ innovation award in 2016. + tom.wilms@witteveenbos.com
Witteveen+Bos Witteveen+Bos Nieuws News mei June 2017 2017
Coastal modelling in Ghana Specialists in hydrodynamics and morphology have produced a computer model of the entire coastline of Ghana. It shows water levels and currents at any given location and how they are influenced by waves, wind and tides. December 2016 saw the completion of a project commissioned by PMI Marine & Construction Services. It involved modelling conditions at a location several kilometres off the coast at Tema which has been earmarked as the possible site of a loading and unloading station for a petroleum depot. Both normal, everyday conditions and the extreme design conditions were examined and reported. Earlier in 2016, we conducted a similar meteorology and oceanography (‘metocean’) study at a location near Aboadze. This study examined the feasibility of constructing a cooling water system for an electricity generating station. The model is a valuable addition to the already extensive database, which now includes practically all coastal locations at which Witteveen+Bos has conducted this type of project. + daniel.dusseljee@witteveenbos.com
Kapuk Naga Indah project in good shape After 15 years of preliminary, conceptual and detailed designs, advice on tender documents and assistance by Witteveen+Bos in obtaining permits, construction of the first Kapuk Naga Indah (KNI) island in Jakarta Bay started in 2012. The artificial island has almost reached its final shape, and engineering services are now being provided in the form of technical assistance. Reclaiming land for a polder system from the more than 10-metre-thick layer of soft soil in Jakarta Bay has turned out to be quite a challenge. Involvement of Witteveen+Bos Witteveen+Bos Indonesia has been providing consultancy services for the project since the initial stages in 1982. During that period, valuable experience has been gained in tackling the many challenges that reclaiming land in Jakarta Bay entails. With a surface area of 300 hectares and fulltime contributions from ten experienced engineers in both Jakarta and the Netherlands since 2012, this is one of the biggest land reclamation projects that Witteveen+Bos Indonesia has ever worked on. The scope of the work continues to expand, with conceptual designs for new reclamation projects still being produced. Flexibility Whereas technical assistance is usually very strictly defined, flexibility is a basic requirement in the case of the KNI islands. The construction work on most of the islands has been awarded to a contractor that has gained all its experience in land reclamation as part of the current project. This does not always result in the exact construction that we, as the designer, would prefer. This situation requires careful supervision and a highly alert technical assistance team. Aside from the technical challenges, commercial developments and governmental guidelines that are subject to continuous change require frequent design modifications, even while construction is ongoing. Advanced modelling has been used to properly identify risks and the responses of the design. Calculation methods comprising advanced dynamic FEM modelling provide insight into the behaviour of sea defences during earthquake events. The water quality in the river mouths in Jakarta Bay is being investigated for future utilities to be installed on the islands, and a large-scale permanent network has been set up to perform land subsidence measurements. During the technical assistance phase, a huge volume of monitoring data will provide insight into the actual behaviour and the build-up of the land reclamation during construction. Witteveen+Bos has set up a sophisticated WebGIS system that provides weekly overviews of all data, their location, and the history of the project. This enables us and the client to anticipate potential deviations. + tom.wilms@witteveenbos.com
Witteveen+Bos News June 2017
Reusing water in Isfahan In partnership with Wahang Saran, an Iranian EPC contractor specialising in wastewater treatment, Witteveen+Bos has recently completed a project which is the first of its kind. All wastewater from a steel mill in Isfahan can now be recycled and reused. Historic Isfahan is Iran’s second largest city and is located in a particularly arid region. To achieve expansion, the steel mill has no option but to reuse water. Based on the success of this project, Witteveen+Bos and Wahang Saran intend to continue their collaboration and bid for similar water recycling projects elsewhere. Witteveen+Bos can of course contribute the extensive knowledge we have gained in projects such as the design of an ultra-pure water plant in Emmen for our client NAM. A Memorandum of Understanding has now been signed to formalise the partnership. + wouter.bijman@witteveenbos.com
WATER MANAGEMENT ADVICE FOR FARMERS In Indonesia, population growth and increasing prosperity combine to drive demand for agricultural products. Although it has a huge land area, Indonesia continues to import much of its food requirement. It now wishes to become more self-sufficient. The government and various private-sector organisations are researching ways to create new agricultural areas and increase the yield of existing operations. Land with the necessary potential is scarce and is often located in the more remote regions. There are further complications in the form of flood risks, saltwater incursions and frequent drought. Witteveen+Bos is involved in a number of studies intended to find solutions to these problems. In Sumba, for example, we conducted an extensive groundwater survey for a clove plantation, while in Sumatra we examined flood risks in connection with the planned expansion of plantation operations. Land suitability studies have also been conducted elsewhere in Indonesia, including several in the Kalimantan and Papua regions. Australian agronomics specialists have advised on ways to optimise the potential yield of the planned plantations. + lourens.meijer@witteveenbos.com
Faecal sludge management in Accra, Ghana Faecal sludge management is a major challenge in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), as in many developing countries around the world. Faecal sludge matter is often not properly handled and treated to meet the applicable environmental standards. In some cases, faecal matter is dumped directly into water bodies, open sea and/or open dump sites, resulting in dire health and environmental consequences. Witteveen+Bos, acting as sub-contractor to Colan Consult, is responding to the World Bank’s call for tenders to provide ‘consultancy services for update assessment and strategic planning of liquid waste management in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area’. The project brief estimated that about
90 % of public and household toilets in GAMA use on-site technologies. Effluents from these on-site toilet facilities are collected from septic tanks, holding tanks and pan and pit latrines for subsequent disposal. It was also estimated that over 1,200 m3 of faecal/septic sludge was generated in GAMA every day. However, at the start of the project there was not a single operational faecal/ septic sludge or septage treatment plant in GAMA. Witteveen+Bos conducted the technology review and the technical audit of facilities and sites, and prepared the preliminary engineering design for two innovative and sustainable faecal sludge treatment facilities in Accra. Experts from Witteveen+Bos also assisted with presentations and workshops organised as part of the assignment.
Designs were drawn up for a sophisticated combination of physical and biological faecal sludge treatment technologies and reject water treatment. Sludge thickening and dewatering with screw presses will be applied, as well as anaerobic treatment of the faecal sludge using a balloon digester and biogas production and facultative pond systems for reject water. The so-called Pivot process was selected for thermal and greenhouse sludge drying facilities for the treatment of 600 m³/day of sludge at the Nungua site to the east of Accra. The second faecal sludge treatment plant has a design treatment capacity of 1,500 m³/day and will be equipped with an upflow bed filter combined with pivot works to produce biofuel (briquettes). + richard.sedafor@witteveenbos.com
Caucasus decontamination project completed In late 2016, Witteveen+Bos completed a decontamination project in the Caucasus region of Georgia, where mining activity has resulted in large deposits of arsenic. The project, which involved several partners, has done much to mitigate environmental and public health problems in the region. During the Soviet period, the Caucasus region was the centre of a large-scale minerals industry. Ores with high concentrations of arsenic were mined and processed here. There were large deposits of mining waste and little was done to prevent the toxic substance leaching into soil and groundwater. After Georgia regained its independence in 1991, mining was discontinued but the processing facilities and sites were not treated or sealed off effectively. Arsenic could still be spread by the wind and in water.
Pilot polder project in Semarang operational In 2001, Witteveen+Bos in Jakarta organised a seminar entitled ‘Polder Systems in Waterfront Cities’ in association with the Groot Salland and Rijnland water management authorities, Rijkswaterstaat (the Dutch department of public works) and the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation. Speakers at the two-day meeting included Dutch experts in polder design and management. There was also a presentation by a project developer who has built and successfully maintained a privately-funded polder in Jakarta. Witteveen+Bos produced the designs for this polder in phases over the period from 1986 to 2005. Indonesian government officials at the seminar were so impressed that they decided to implement a pilot project of their own. Semarang, which suffers large-scale water management issues, was chosen as the location. Partners for Water financed a feasibility study to identify the most appropriate site for the polder. This proved to be the Banger district, an area of some 540 hectares which has a population of 80,000 and no sanitation other than open sewers. Banger is subject to constant flooding. Witteveen+Bos helped to produce the detailed plans in partnership with the Schieland & Krimpenerwaard Water Management Authority (HHSK). Despite a number of setbacks, and largely due to the dogged determination of HHSK, the pumps could be activated in October 2016. The results are extremely satisfying. Water levels in the Banger district have fallen by as much as 1.5 metres and the sewers no longer overflow. Eighty thousand people now enjoy far better living conditions.
In partnership with the Caucasus Environmental NGO Network (CENN), Witteveen+Bos produced decontamination plans for seven locations with high concentrations of arsenic in the soil or in former processing facilities. The intention was to reduce contamination to an acceptable level, whereupon these sites can be used for new industrial activities. At four locations, the plans were implemented by Biosoil International, working under our supervision. The work included constructing new, safe landfill sites to contain the toxic waste resulting from the demolition of contaminated buildings and the removal of topsoil. The project was organised by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency as part of the Eastern Europe Environmental Cooperation Programme. It was co-financed by the Georgian Ministry of Environmental and Natural Resources Protection. Particular attention was devoted to upgrading an existing bunker silo which is used to isolate heavily contaminated waste. Because the silo is located on the outer curve of a river, the measures can only be temporary in nature. Witteveen+Bos held a brainstorming session at which experts in various disciplines suggested more permanent solutions. Their ideas and other recommendations with regard to the arsenic problem in the region were communicated to the various stakeholders. The Georgian government has indicated that the proposals form a strong basis for funding applications. + stef.carelsen@witteveenbos.com
+ arno.kops@witteveenbos.com
Witteveen+Bos Nieuws mei 2017
PEOPLE OSKARS ZIVTINS BECOMES MANAGER OF WATER AND INFRASTRUCTURE PMC IN LATVIA Oskars Zivtins has been appointed manager of the Water and Infrastructure PMC in Latvia, with effect from 1 October 2016. He will also head the Witteveen+Bos office in Riga. The PMC is largely concerned with the development of port districts and the design of sustainable infrastructure.
MARTIJN AKKERMAN APPOINTED GENERAL MANAGER OF LONDON OFFICE Martijn Akkerman is the new general manager of our London office, a post he took up on 22 February 2017. Martijn joined Witteveen+Bos in 1998 on graduation from Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, where he studied Civil Engineering with a specialisation in traffic and transport. He went on to manage the Witteveen+Bos office in Riga, where his activities included helping to produce a mobility plan for the city.
LEONIE KOOPS APPOINTED MANAGER OF INTEGRATED CONTRACTS PMC Leonie Koops has taken over as manager of the Integrated Contracts PMC, with effect from 1 January 2017. Leonie studied Civil Engineering at Delft University of Technology and joined Witteveen+Bos in 1999. Leonie’s new role as leader of the Integrated Contracts PMC will make very good use of her extensive experience in project and process management as she strives to strengthen the position of the PMC among public- and private-sector clients.
STEVEN DELFGAAUW SUCCEEDS THEO SALET AS LEADER OF BUILDINGS PMC Steven Delfgaauw became manager of the Buildings PMC on 1 February 2017, taking over from Theo Salet. Steven studied Civil Engineering at Delft University of Technology and spent the first eight years of his career as a geotechnology consultant and project leader with Tauw. He joined Witteveen+Bos in 2002. In addition to his activities as project manager, he was responsible for setting up the Underground Construction and Geotechnical Engineering group.
Earthquake-proof design for Jakarta Large parts of Indonesia are susceptible to earthquakes. Even so, there seems to be no consensus among engineers, contractors and project developers about the potential impact of an earthquake or the measures needed to ensure that structures such as high-rise buildings, dams and jetties can withstand a serious tremor. Witteveen+Bos undertakes all types of calculations, from assessing initial seismograph readings to geotechnical and structural engineering calculations to determine how buildings will respond to the massive forces involved. We recently performed a number of dynamic analyses for the ongoing land reclamation projects in Jakarta Bay. We have also reviewed tectonic studies on behalf of a project developer in Makassar, and have been requested to evaluate several highrise buildings in central Jakarta to determine how earthquake-resistant they are. + willemijn.de.raadt@witteveenbos.com
THEO SALET TO PURSUE COMPANY-WIDE INNOVATION With effect from 1 February 2017, Theo Salet is responsible for promoting innovation within all business lines. The aim is to develop, valorise and implement high-quality knowledge in association with potential partners and the international network hubs. Particular attention will be devoted to the opportunities created by ongoing digitisation. Theo joined Witteveen+Bos in 1998. For the last five years he has combined his role of leader of the Buildings PMC with that of professor at Eindhoven University of Technology (Department of the Built Environment), specialising in concrete structures.
MAARTEN-KEES VAN BREUKELEN BECOMES LEADER OF SMART INFRA SYSTEMS PMC Maarten-Kees van Breukelen is the new leader of the Smart Infra Systems (SIS) PMC (formerly known as Rail Infrastructure). He took up the post on 1 February 2017. Maarten-Kees studied Civil Engineering at Delft University of Technology before joining Witteveen+Bos in 2006. He quickly rose to become project leader and leader of the Systems Engineering and Contract Management group. In his new role he will seek to strengthen the position of SIS among important clients such as Rijkswaterstaat, ProRail, provincial authorities and contractors.
WIM VAN DEN BERG BECOMES GENERAL MANAGER IN BREDA Wim van den Berg took over as general manager of the Breda office on 1 April 2017. Wim studied Construction Management and Engineering before joining Witteveen+Bos in 2009. He succeeds Erwin Castelijn, who is to focus on business development for the Information Technology PMC.
RUUD BOUW IS NEW LEADER OF COASTS, RIVERS AND LAND RECLAMATION PMC Ruud Bouw has been named as the new leader of the Coasts, Rivers and Land Reclamation PMC, with effect from 6 April 2017. He succeeds Stephan van der Biezen. Ruud joined Witteveen+Bos in 2005, having gained his degree in Hydraulic Engineering from Delft University of Technology. He became head of the Coast and River Hydraulic Engineering group in 2011.
Jaap van der Graaf Award goes to Heleen de Fooij On 13 January 2017 the Jaap van der Graaf Award was presented to Heleen de Fooij MSc, during the 69th Drinking Water and Waste water Symposium (‘Vakantiecursus’) at Delft University of Technology. This annual prize is given in recognition of the best English-language article about waste water treatment, written by a student or researcher and published during the preceding year. The winning article, by De Fooij and co-authors, was published in the journal ‘Resources, Conservation and Recycling’ under the title ‘Wastewater as a resource: Strategies to recover resources from Amsterdam’s wastewater’. + communications@witteveenbos.com
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The Witteveen+Bos News is published twice a year. Volume 21, June 2017