Requalification and excavation works are underway at Porto Santo Marina to improve the infrastructure's operationality and safety, including dredging to increase draft.
However, the deposition of removed sediments, which are brownish and potentially odorous, near a Blue Flag-certified beach raises environmental concerns. Legislation requires prior analysis to classify the material's contamination level, which may contain organic waste, heavy metals, or fuels.
The article warns of the risk of contaminating bathing waters and marine fauna if the sands are contaminated, potentially leading to the beach's closure. Deposition near the waterline and beach, especially during the bathing season, is seen as a potential violation of environmental and safety regulations.
