Implementation framework for eco-engineering in coastal construction projects

The pressures of climate change and rapid urbanisation are accelerating coastal development, a phenomenon often described as “ocean sprawl.” The proliferation of conventional coastal infrastructure has led to “ocean squeeze,” whereby natural ecosystems are lost or degraded, increasing risks to both communities and the environment. This highlights the urgent need to integrate ecological considerations into coastal construction. Ecoengineering, which incorporates natural elements into built structures, offers a promising solution and has been increasingly adopted in many developed countries. However, its implementation in coastal construction in Malaysia remains limited, with a lack of practical frameworks and limited awareness among industry stakeholders. To address this gap, this study investigates how ecoengineering can be systematically integrated into coastal construction projects through the examination of key construction stages and associated critical processes. A multimethod qualitative approach was employed, combining a systematic literature review with semistructured interviews involving project participants from three major coastal developments in Penang: Andaman Island, The Light, and Queens Waterfront. The findings were validated through a focus group discussion with ecoengineering experts to ensure practical relevance and applicability. The data were analysed via NVivo software, which facilitated the identification of five principal stages with numerous interrelated processes that shape project outcomes, namely, conception (6 processes), planning (17 processes), design (10 processes), implementation (7 processes for prefabrication and onsite fabrication), and monitoring and evaluation (3 processes). The study contributes by developing a structured framework that clarifies how ecoengineering can be integrated across the construction lifecycle and provides insights for policymakers, developers, and engineers to advance sustainable coastal development. More broadly, the study reinforces commitments to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 13: Climate Action; SDG 14: Life Below Water).