SHORE: Sustainable Geopolymer Solutions for Coastal Erosion Control

Implementing Partner: Build Change

Project name: SHORE: Sustainable geopolymers for Harnessing Coastal Resilience and Erosion control

The SHORE project addresses coastal erosion in Espírito Santo, Brazil, by developing low-carbon geopolymers from red mud and marble waste.

It advances environmental goals by assessing material strength, erosion resistance, and emissions. Through innovative, eco-friendly solutions, such as artificial reef structures and soil reinforcement, it fosters sustainable coastal infrastructure.

The project strengthens climate resilience in vulnerable areas while promoting circular economy principles through the reuse of industrial by-products.

Global coastlines
facing erosion risks
0 %
Brazil’s coastline
affected by erosion
0 %

Impact and Key Findings

1

The project introduces a sustainable, low-carbon cement alternative made from industrial byproducts, significantly cutting emissions while advancing circular economy principles and fostering environmentally responsible coastal infrastructure development in climate-sensitive regions.

2

SHORE evaluates erosion-resistant materials to support the development of eco-reefs and reinforced coastal soils. These nature-friendly solutions provide practical protection for vulnerable shorelines against wave action, weather extremes, and climate-driven coastal degradation.

3

SHORE fosters disaster resilient coastal infrastructure by delivering science-based guidance that empowers policymakers and engineers to select eco-friendly materials, enhancing durability and sustainability in vulnerable coastal communities facing escalating climate and environmental pressures.

Resources

Aishwarya Pillai

Lead Specialist

Alpana heads institutional partnerships, governance, and resource mobilization at CDRI, advancing cross-sector collaborations that drive resilient infrastructure programming across Member Countries and organizations. With over 25 years of experience spanning international development, global health, and the non-profit sector, she brings deep expertise in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and delivering strategic change. 

At CDRI, Alpana has been pivotal in forging strategic alliances with governments, international organizations, and philanthropies. She also plays a key role in fortifying institutional systems and board governance mechanisms as the Coalition transitions into an international organization. 

Before joining CDRI, Alpana held senior leadership roles at The George Institute for Global Health, Plan India, WaterAid India, and SOS Children’s Villages, leading institutional fundraising and cultivating strategic partnerships for social impact. 

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Control from Aligarh Muslim University and completed Executive Education at Harvard Business School (CSR India). Her work is driven by a commitment to building enduring, values-based partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes. 

Alpana Saha

Director, Partnerships, Governance, and Resource Mobilisation 

Alpana heads institutional partnerships, governance, and resource mobilization at CDRI, advancing cross-sector collaborations that drive resilient infrastructure programming across Member Countries and organizations. With over 25 years of experience spanning international development, global health, and the non-profit sector, she brings deep expertise in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and delivering strategic change. 

At CDRI, Alpana has been pivotal in forging strategic alliances with governments, international organizations, and philanthropies. She also plays a key role in fortifying institutional systems and board governance mechanisms as the Coalition transitions into an international organization. 

Before joining CDRI, Alpana held senior leadership roles at The George Institute for Global Health, Plan India, WaterAid India, and SOS Children’s Villages, leading institutional fundraising and cultivating strategic partnerships for social impact. 

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Control from Aligarh Muslim University and completed Executive Education at Harvard Business School (CSR India). Her work is driven by a commitment to building enduring, values-based partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes.