Innovative Eco-Friendly Materials for Modern Jetty Construction
Have you ever wondered if the materials in your jetty could actually help the environment instead of harming it?
As someone who has been around marine construction for years, I’ve seen how much of a difference the right materials can make not just for the structure’s lifespan, but for the water and marine life around it. I want to share my thoughts on the types of materials that can create stronger, longer-lasting jetties while also supporting more sustainable boating practices here in Australia.
Why choosing the right material matters
Every jetty sits in a harsh environment. Saltwater, UV exposure, and constant movement all put stress on the structure. Over time, the wrong materials mean more repairs, more waste, and more disruption to the marine environment. I’ve worked on projects where poor material choices caused significant deterioration in less than a decade. In contrast, selecting quality, eco-friendly options can extend a jetty’s life, reduce waste, and even create habitats for marine life.
Timber options that make sense for Australian waters
Marine-grade hardwood has always been a popular choice here, but not all timbers are equal. According to WoodSolutions, species with a class 1 or 2 durability rating can resist decay and pests for decades, even in wet conditions. If the timber is sustainably sourced and certified, it can be a great fit for those wanting a natural look while still supporting environmental goals. In certain projects, I’ve combined hardwood decking with recycled plastic understructures to balance strength with reduced environmental impact.
Composite and recycled plastic materials
One of the most exciting shifts I’ve seen is the growth in recycled plastic composites for jetty decking and boardwalks. These materials keep plastic waste out of landfill and provide a rot-resistant, low-maintenance surface. Here’s another article that shows how recycled composite decking has been used in public infrastructure in Victoria. I’ve found this to be especially useful in high-traffic areas where durability is critical.
Concrete alternatives and eco-cement
Concrete is common in marine construction, but traditional mixes have a high carbon footprint. I’ve been keeping an eye on geopolymer and eco-cement blends, which use industrial by-products like fly ash instead of Portland cement. These options can greatly reduce CO₂ emissions while offering excellent marine durability. More research is still being done on their long-term performance, but I see strong potential here for future jetty design work.
Enhancing marine life through design
Materials are important, but how we use them can be just as impactful. Projects like Living Seawalls show how textured concrete panels can encourage marine biodiversity by providing habitats for fish, molluscs, and algae. I’ve applied similar thinking on certain projects by incorporating features that attract marine life without compromising the structure’s strength.
Restoring habitats with shellfish reefs
In Western Australia, I’ve been proud to support initiatives like the Swan-Canning estuary shellfish reef restoration project. These reefs help filter water, improve fish stocks, and bring life back to degraded areas. They also work hand-in-hand with eco-friendly jetties by improving the surrounding ecosystem’s resilience.
Corrosion-resistant piling options
Steel piles remain common, but protecting them from corrosion is critical. Coatings, sleeves, and even fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) piles are increasingly being used. Research from this paper shows FRP’s strength, low weight, and corrosion resistance make it a strong contender for certain marine projects.
Being fish friendly
It’s possible to build infrastructure that works with marine life rather than against it. The NSW Department of Primary Industries has guidelines for fish-friendly marinas that can be applied to jetty construction. This includes things like pile spacing to allow fish movement, and using materials that don’t leach harmful chemicals.
Local examples of eco-focused projects
Closer to home, I’ve worked on timber replacements using sustainable hardwood at Warradale Lake and on artificial reef development projects. These have shown me first-hand how small design choices can lead to significant environmental benefits over time.
Practical steps for anyone planning a jetty
Choose materials with proven durability ratings suitable for marine conditions
Consider recycled or composite materials where appropriate
Incorporate features that support local marine biodiversity
Plan for long-term maintenance to reduce waste and disruption
Where to go from here
If you’re planning a new jetty or upgrading an existing one, the material choice is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. My team and I can help guide you through the options, whether you need marine piling, maintenance services, or a full design and build. Feel free to get in touch so we can discuss your specific site and needs.