Abstract
This project aims to help policy makers better understand the obstacles of bringing to market new technologies that can help communities be more resilient to the risks posed by climate change. This research is based on work being carried out by University of Miami’s U-Link team, Next Generation of Coastal Structures Specifically, this U-Link team developed innovative composite reinforcement systems that resist rust and stop the deterioration of coastal structures. Also, they have designed a new seawall system called SEAHIVES TM to replace traditional rip rap. This project focuses on U-link team partnership with the city of North Bay Village (NBV). The first goal was to research the permitting process through interviews and analysis of permit documents to identify ways of streamlining the process so that new technologies can be tested in the field. This streamlined process would be reserved for new technology aimed at adaption or mitigation of the effects of climate change in Florida. The second goal was to determine potential sites in Miami Dade County for this new riprap technology. This involved gathering existing environmental and permitting data from various government bodies and determining the ideal environmental conditions for SEAHIVES TM. Finally, a diagram was developed to help research teams navigate the existing permitting process. The research indicated a streamlined process is possible for the testing and general permitting for new technology. This new permitting process would involve bringing together members from different permitting agencies into a single task force to create a simplified permit document requiring only two environmental-assessments. After decades of mounting scientific evidence of the risks posed by climate change, time is running out and actions for both mitigation and adaptation are urgently needed, especially in coastal communities like south Florida.