Geotechnical engineering is one of the most resource intensive engineering disciplines. Projects consume vast amounts of resources, change landscapes, and interact across socio-centric (human capital and social expectations), eco-centric (natural resources and ecological capacity), and techno-centric (engineering) boundaries. Improving the sustainability of geotechnical processes is important and necessary for the continued development of resilient communities. This presentation will provide a unique perspective into the three aspects of sustainability (sociocentric, eco-centric, and techno-centric) for a commonly used geotechnical engineering product: coir-fiber geosynthetic rolled erosion control products (RECPs) (see Figure 1.) RECPs are temporary degradable materials manufactured into rolls that are used to minimize soil erosion and enhance the growth of vegetation on bare soil slopes. Coir fiber, obtained from coconuts, is produced around the world and plays an important role in marginalized rural communities. A case study was conducted of the coir fiber industry in Kerala, India. Kerala has an abundance of natural resources, including coconuts, backwaters for processing coir fiber from coconuts, and low-income workers. More than 40% of rural women in Kerala work in the coir industry. This three-pronged sustainability study (see Figure 2) began in Kerala, India, with interviews with women coir workers from three different rural villages to gain an understanding of how the industry impacts them, their environment, and how their products enter the local market. The study included interviews with local manufacturers and state agencies to gain an understanding of how locally produced coir fiber and products enter the national and global markets. Finally, the technical components of coir-fiber RECP development and product performance were evaluated through an extensive laboratory rainsplash erosion study conducted at Syracuse University to evaluate the properties and performance of coir-fiber RECPs and their ability to protect and enhance natural soil resources. Insight into the advantages and challenges of the sustainability of these products in rural communities and globally was gained.

Track 5: Sustainability Aspects of Coir‐Fiber Geosynthetic Rolled
  Erosion Control Products

To lean into ASCE’s sustainability efforts to mitigate environmental effects and use resources wisely, ASCE’s International Conferences on Sustainable Infrastructure (ICSI) 2021 will be held as a virtual event. The dates of ICSI 2021 will be December 6-10th. We hope you will join us in this multi-day, multi-faceted program!

Powered by the ICSI Steering Committee based in Houston, the 2021 event will bring together leaders to discuss leveraging sustainable infrastructure for resilient communities.  The program will offer content from across the globe, but have several highlights on sustainability initiatives in Houston, Texas. We hope you will join us virtually for plenary sessions, technical discussions, along with opportunities for Q&A and networking, connecting with virtual exhibitors, and to earn professional development hours.  

We look forward to ‘seeing you’ at ICSI 2021!"

Track 5: Sustainability Aspects of Coir‐Fiber Geosynthetic Rolled Erosion Control Products