Channel deepening is the process of increasing the depth of a waterway, such as a river or harbor, to allow larger vessels to navigate more easily. This is often done by dredging, which involves removing sediment and debris from the bottom of the channel. The goal is to accommodate bigger ships, improve shipping efficiency, and enhance trade opportunities. This practice can have significant economic benefits, as it allows ports to handle larger cargo ships, like container ships and bulk carriers. However, channel deepening can also raise environmental concerns, as it may disrupt local ecosystems and habitats, affecting species such as fish and marine life.