As ecological and environmental protection concepts continue to gain prominence, river management is shifting from a focus solely on flood control and bank protection to a comprehensive approach that prioritizes ecology. Ecological plastic-steel sheet piles are made from polymer-reinforced composite materials and are designed to actively exclude harmful substances such as heavy metals, thereby preventing water and soil pollution at the source. They can be safely used in ecologically sensitive areas, such as water source protection zones, and do not require the consumption of sand, gravel, or timber, thus reducing the depletion of non-renewable resources and aligning with the principles of green development
Through their ecological pore design and permeable structure, these sheet piles actively reconnect water with the ecosystem: they provide habitats for aquatic life, aiding in the restoration of biodiversity, while also maintaining the hydrological cycle along the banks, enhancing the water’s self-purification capacity, and improving river water quality. Additionally, weighing only one-eighth as much as conventional steel sheet piles, it requires minimal energy for transportation. Its modular assembly during construction eliminates the need for large-scale excavation, significantly reducing disturbance to the surrounding ecosystem while increasing construction efficiency by 5 to 10 times compared to traditional methods
Furthermore, these sheet piles are corrosion-resistant and UV-resistant, with a service life exceeding 50 years and low lifecycle maintenance costs; they are also recyclable, reducing construction waste. They have already been implemented in river management projects in Chongming, Yinchuan, Jiaxing, and other locations, effectively achieving the dual goals of flood protection and ecological restoration. As a preferred solution for green river management, they are driving a shift in management models from engineering protection to ecological restoration.