GEOSYNTHETICS
Combating ground contamination with 4IR Geosynthetics are the key to sustainability, with 4IR (Four th Industrial Revolution) developments spearheading a revolutionar y shift in how environmentally engineered projects are designed and executed, says specialist contractor GAST. Covid-19 has been an influencing factor.
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roduce, consume, discard and repeat. This has been humans’ pattern since the dawn of time. We have become more sophisticated in what we produce and how we consume it. But the discarding, fundamentally, remains unchanged, with tonnes of waste often ending up in landfills or water sources. Whether it is in dams, mines or landfills, without the proper measures and
tools in place, our actions risk contaminating the planet. As Africa’s oldest and largest geosynthetic installer, GAST understands how effective and efficient having the correct geosynthetics service provider can be. This has been GAST’s niche since 1961 and the company has constantly installed an array of quality geosynthetics to meet the requirements of varying terrains and project needs. GAST not only supplies but installs numerous geosynthetic products. These include geomembranes, which have the primary function of preventing the migration of contaminated leachate to surrounding soil in landfills, tailings storage facilities, coal stockyards, pollution control dams, and/or return water dams. Another core area is geotextiles, which play an integral role in various construction and civil applications due to their versatility and robustness. GAST also provides a range of other geosynthetic-related products and services.
As Africa’s oldest and largest geosynthetics installer, GAST understands how effective and efficient having the correct geosynthetics service provider can be
Leading through innovation GAST has always been synonymous with innovation and progressive methods, stemming back to the 1980s when the company patented the first ‘dam’ linings, perfected through GAST’s ingenuity, which made the ‘plasticisation’ of soil possible for the first time in the world. GAST is always adapting to the changing landscape, innovating not only to meet the needs of the industry, but to consistently deliver quality products and services to its clients. It is believed that the geosynthetic industry is experiencing a 4IR boom, with entities across the globe adapting sophisticated equipment and tools to push innovation and improve quality. GAST is seen as a leader and pioneer in its 4IR endeavours, currently developing fully automated deployment machines that utilise state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other deep learning AI technologies to provide a more cost-effective and higherquality service to its clients. Kevin Gast, CEO and President of GAST Global, states, “Globally, we have seen a tremendous shift in geosynthetics over the last two years and Covid-19 has exacerbated the need for more innovative and cost-effective solutions, forcing geosynthetics installers and manufacturers to find 4IR-driven technologies.” “GAST has recently appointed a new Chief Technology Officer and is at the forefront of autonomy and AI within the industry,” he explains. “Our clients come first and utilising technology provides them with a cheaper, higher-quality and safer product.” GAST has completed over 13 000 projects, boasts accreditation from the United Nations and World Bank, and is seen as a world leader in geosynthetics. A proven track record for project excellence confirms this.
IMIESA September 2020
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