Voyaging the World's Civil Engineering Wonders

John Laverick's book explores civil engineering feats across three continents and three centuries, including the Panama and Suez canals, floating concepts, and the restoration of the Wilts & Berks Canal.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 04 December 2017
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

Civil engineering is a remarkable field that has left an indelible mark on the world's seas and waterways. From the SS Great Britain to the Panama Canal, there are countless examples of enduring feats of civil engineering endeavor that have shaped our world. In this beautifully illustrated book, John Laverick offers an insight into the intriguing field of civil engineering, taking you on a journey that crosses three continents and three centuries.

One of the most remarkable achievements in civil engineering is the artificial waterways of the Panama and Suez canals. These canals were constructed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and they have revolutionized global trade and transportation. The Panama Canal, in particular, is a marvel of engineering, with its massive locks and channels that allow ships to pass through. The Suez Canal, while not as long, is also a significant waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea.

Another fascinating aspect of civil engineering is floating concepts. The concrete Mulberry harbors, for example, were used during World War II to provide temporary docking facilities for ships in the Normandy invasion. These harbors were built on floating platforms and could be quickly assembled and disassembled. The world's only rotating ship lift at Falkirk, Scotland, is another example of floating concepts. This lift allows ships to be lifted out of the water and onto a platform, which can then be transported to another location.

Civil engineering has also played a significant role in the restoration of historic canals. The Wilts & Berks Canal, for example, was once a major transportation route in England, but it fell into disrepair. In the 1990s, a group of volunteers began to restore the canal, and today it is a popular tourist attraction. The restoration process involved repairing the canal's locks, channels, and bridges, as well as restoring the surrounding landscape.

In addition to these achievements, civil engineering has also played a critical role in the development of modern cities. The construction of skyscrapers, bridges, and highways has transformed the urban landscape, making it more efficient and accessible. Civil engineers have also developed innovative solutions to address environmental challenges, such as reducing carbon emissions and improving water quality.

Despite its many achievements, civil engineering is also faced with numerous challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the impact of climate change on the environment. Climate change is causing sea levels to rise, which can lead to flooding and erosion of coastal areas. Civil engineers are working to develop new technologies and strategies to mitigate these effects, such as building seawalls and installing floodgates.

Another challenge is the increasing demand for infrastructure. As the world's population grows, the demand for transportation, energy, and water is increasing. Civil engineers are working to develop new infrastructure that is sustainable and efficient, such as renewable energy sources and smart transportation systems.

In conclusion, civil engineering is a remarkable field that has left an indelible mark on the world's seas and waterways. From the SS Great Britain to the Panama Canal, there are countless examples of enduring feats of civil engineering endeavor that have shaped our world. Whether it's the artificial waterways of the Panama and Suez canals, floating concepts, or the restoration of historic canals, civil engineering has played a critical role in the development of modern cities and the improvement of the environment. Despite its many challenges, civil engineering is a field that continues to innovate and evolve, and it will continue to play a critical role in shaping our future.

Weight: 958g
Dimension: 250 x 233 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780750984362