Introduction

Marine ecosystems are facing numerous threats, including global warming, overpopulation, pollution, increasing energy consumption, overexploitation of natural resources, and disruptions to natural processes. These anthropogenic  activities are accelerating biodiversity loss and increasing species endangerment. Ocean temperatures have also risen as a result of climate change, leading to shifts in marine species distribution, coral bleaching, and disruptions to marine ecosystems (Pörtner, H.O., et al., 2021). 

Approximately 87% of the ocean’s area has been altered by the direct impact of human activities (Pörtner, H.O., et al., 2021). For instance, while human marine infrastructures such as ports, offshore platforms, and submarine cables are essential for economic development, they significantly contribute to the degradation of marine ecosystems (Komyakova, V., et al., 2022). 

In response to these challenges, active restoration measures, when combined with regulatory strategies such as the designation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), have been shown to positively impact degraded ecosystems (Abelson, A., et al., 2016). 

A prime example of this innovative approach is the multitechnological solution proposed by Ocean Ecostructures (OE), specifically designed to restore marine ecosystems by renaturalizing human-made infrastructures, offsetting the impact of human activities on oceans. Their unique biomimetic microreefs transform degraded “gray” areas into thriving “blue oases,” promoting biodiversity regeneration, increasing biomass, and restoring vital ecosystem services, aiming to mitigate these pressing global threats. Additionally, OE’s unique AI and ROV based monitoring system, and its comprehensive reporting platform provides scientific value, ensuring validated and scalable lasting ecological impact.

Moreover, ecological restoration is crucial, as habitat-forming species often fail to naturally recruit or develop in degraded ecosystems, even after the primary stressors causing degradation have been mitigated or removed (Vanderklift, M. A., 2020). Therefore, OE implements pre-seeding and transplantation techniques to enhance the settlement and repopulation of ecologically important marine species, including macroalgae, corals, sponges, and marine angiosperms such as Posidonia oceanica, a Mediterranean endemic protected species crucial for habitat stability and biodiversity.

Main Body

OE’s solution includes a multitechnological approach made by its biomimetic artificial microreef, the Life Boosting Unit (LBU), which replicates the functionality of natural reefs, fostering resilient ecosystems. LBUs feature a natural CaCO3 substrate akin to coral skeletons, offering up to six times the regenerative capacity of traditional materials and providing spaces for fish nurseries and marine species shelters. The microreefs contain a proprietary LifeBoostingMix designed to attract microfauna and larvae, enhancing biodiversity recovery. Moreover, the anchoring system does not interfere with operations and allows the integration into existing marine infrastructures. 

Using advanced technologies such as ROVs, multiparametric probes, continuous monitoring sensors, and AI models for species identification, along with other technologies, OE collects critical data on biodiversity, biomass, water quality, carbon dioxide removal (CDR), and oxygen generation. All this information is stored in a digital platform (iOceans), which is accessible to customers, enabling them to meet their ESG/Compliance requirements, offset their negative impact, and enhance social engagement. The platform provides a comprehensive dashboard displaying historical trends, predictive models, and impact assessments. 

OE’s innovative solutions align with global standards like the CSRD and TNFD, integrating ecosystem services and natural capital evaluations into sustainability strategies. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and ecological expertise, OE not only supports environmental restoration and CDR efforts but also empowers clients to measure and amplify the positive impacts of their operations over time, turning them into active allies in the collective mission for marine sustainability.

According to data analyzed up to February 2025, the 192 LBUs that have been in the water for more than six months have accumulated a biomass of 3,667.9 kg, a species richness index of 315, and have removed 1,543.7 kg of CO2. These results surpass by three times the values recorded in conventional port environments primarily composed of concrete, demonstrating a significant improvement in ecosystem health, water quality, and contribution to climate change mitigation.

On the other hand, the SEAREG project constitutes one of OE’s key research initiatives. The primary objective is to investigate and standardize methodologies for the ecological repopulation of different marine species. This encompasses all stages of the restoration process, from the collection of propagules, fragments, or individuals in natural environments to their processing and cultivation under controlled laboratory conditions, followed by their final transplantation into the real environment on the LBUs.

Nature-based Solutions implemented in EFFECTIVE 

Within the framework of the EFFECTIVE project, OE will implement a series of large-scale marine restoration actions aimed at enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. As part of its strategy, OE will deploy these LBUs in selected areas within the Pilot 1 of the project (Mar de l’Empordà, Catalonia, Spain), specifically at Club Nàutic Estartit harbor and the nearby Cala Calella, as a positive control. In addition to the LBUs and the pre-seeding of flagship species—such as gorgonians (Leptogorgia sarmentosa), angiosperms (P. oceanica) and macroalgae (Cystoceira spp. and Ericaria mediterranea)—OE will design and implement a large-scale artificial reef to further promote habitat restoration and ecosystem functionality. This initiative integrates ecosystem-based management (EBM) with Nature-based Solutions (NbS), ensuring long-term ecological benefits while contributing to Mediterranean marine conservation efforts. 

Current experiments, conducted both in controlled laboratory conditions and in situ, focus on refining pre-seeding techniques for Posidonia oceanica (using both seeds and fragments), Leptogorgia sarmentosa, Cystoseira spp., and other macroalgae. Research efforts include optimizing collection, ex situ cultivation, and transplantation to enhance survival and settlement. A key aspect is the use of OE’s bio-receptive pre-seeding plates, designed to support species-specific recruitment and ensure a standardized approach to marine repopulation.

Conclusion

n response to the escalating threats to marine ecosystems, innovative restoration strategies are essential to mitigate biodiversity loss and habitat degradation. Ocean Ecostructures integrates multitechnological Nature-based Solutions, as its biomimetic artificial reefs together with monitoring and reporting advanced technologies, to enhance marine ecosystem renaturalization. 

By replicating natural reef structures and leveraging pre-seeding and transplantation techniques, OE promotes the settlement of ecologically significant species, fostering biodiversity recovery. Additionally, OE’s comprehensive monitoring system, utilizing ROVs, AI models, and digital platforms, ensures scalable, scientifically validated restoration efforts. 

Through projects like SEAREG and EFFECTIVE, OE contributes to the standardization of ecological repopulation methodologies and the implementation of large-scale NbS, aligning marine conservation with global sustainability standards.

References

Abelson, A., Halpern, B. S., Reed, D. C., Orth, R. J., Kendrick, G. A., Beck, M. W., Belmaker, J., Krause, G., Edgar, G. J., Airoldi, L., Brokovich, E., France, R., Shashar, N., de Blaeij, A., Stambler, N., Salameh, P., Shechter, M., & Nelson, P. A. (2016). Upgrading marine ecosystem restoration using ecological‐social concepts. BioScience, 66(2), 156–163. https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biv171

Komyakova, V., Jaffrés, J. B., Strain, E. M., Cullen-Knox, C., Fudge, M., Langhamer, O., … & Haward, M. (2022). Conceptualisation of multiple impacts interacting in the marine environment using marine infrastructure as an example. Science of the Total Environment, 830, 154748.

Pörtner, H.O., Scholes, R.J., Agard, J., Archer, E., Arneth, A., Bai, X., Barnes, D., Burrows, M., Chan, L., Cheung, W.L., Diamond, S., Donatti, C., Duarte, C., Eisenhauer, N., Foden, W., Gasalla, M. A., Handa, C., Hickler, T., Hoegh-Guldberg, O., Ichii, K., Jacob, U., Insarov, G., Kiessling, W., Leadley, P., Leemans, R., Levin, L., Lim, M., Maharaj, S., Managi, S., Marquet, P. A., McElwee,  P., Midgley,  G., Oberdorff, T., Obura, D., Osman, E., Pandit, R., Pascual, U., Pires, A. P. F., Popp, A., ReyesGarcía, V., Sankaran, M., Settele, J., Shin, Y. J., Sintayehu, D. W., Smith, P., Steiner, N., Strassburg, B., Sukumar, R., Trisos, C., Val, A.L., Wu,  J., Aldrian,   E., Parmesan, C., Pichs-Madruga,  R., Roberts, D.C., Rogers, A.D., Díaz, S., Fischer, M., Hashimoto, S., Lavorel, S., Wu, N., Ngo, H.T. 2021. Scientific outcome of the IPBES-IPCC co-sponsored workshop on biodiversity and climate change; IPBES secretariat, Bonn, Germany, DOI:10.5281/zenodo.4659158.

Vanderklift, M. A., Doropoulos, C., Gorman, D., Leal, I., Minne, A. J., Statton, J., … & Wernberg, T. (2020). Using propagules to restore coastal marine ecosystems. Frontiers in Marine Science, 7, 724.

Author(s)

Maria Angela Reyes

Anna Lloveras

Ignasi Ferrer

OCEAN ECOSTRUCTURES

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FORTH’s involvement in the EFFECTIVE project underscores their commitment to marine conservation through the development and implementation of ecosystem-based management strategies. These strategies aim to balance ecological preservation with socio-economic interests, ensuring the sustainability of marine ecosystems.

The interview also highlights the innovative methodologies employed by FORTH, including advanced environmental monitoring and adaptive management practices. These methodologies enable a proactive response to environmental changes, thereby strengthening the resilience of marine ecosystems.

FORTH’s contributions to the EFFECTIVE project exemplify the critical role of scientific research and innovation in addressing environmental challenges. Their work not only advances our understanding of marine ecosystems but also provides practical solutions for their protection.

For a comprehensive insight into FORTH’s work and their impact on marine conservation, read the full interview: https://www.amna.gr/eu/article/823975/Europaiko-ergo-me-ti-summetochi-tou-ITE–gia-tin-prostasia-ton-thalassion-prostateuomenon-periochon-tis-Mesogeiou–apo-tin-klimatiki-

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The Leibniz-Institut für Ostseeforschung Warnemünde (IOW), a key partner in the EFFECTIVE project, has released a new publication focusing on ecosystem-based management (EBM) in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Baltic Sea. The study addresses the challenges of balancing environmental conservation with socio-economic activities, promoting an integrated approach to managing marine ecosystems. This work is crucial as the Baltic Sea faces increasing pressures from climate change, pollution, and human activities.

A key aspect of the research is the use of remote sensing to monitor macrophyte habitats, which are vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem stability. This technology allows for large-scale, high-resolution data collection, providing essential information on environmental changes over time. These insights support more informed decision-making and adaptive management practices, ensuring a flexible response to evolving ecological conditions.

The publication emphasizes adaptive management strategies, which allow for continuous adjustments based on new scientific evidence. This approach is particularly relevant in dynamic environments like the Baltic Sea, where ecological conditions can change rapidly. By implementing flexible policies informed by ongoing data analysis, marine managers can improve the effectiveness of protection measures and better address emerging environmental challenges.

Another central finding is the importance of stakeholder collaboration in successful ecosystem management. Involving local communities, policymakers, researchers, and industries ensures that conservation efforts align with regional needs and foster shared responsibility. This collaborative model enhances the implementation of sustainable practices while maintaining economic and social interests.

Explore the full publication here: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-445X/14/1/4

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Our oceans are more than just beautiful landscapes—they are key players in regulating the planet’s climate absorbing about 30% of the carbon dioxide humans produce and helping keep global temperatures in check; but as climate change accelerates, marine ecosystems are facing unprecedented threats.
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are essential in addressing these challenges. They play a crucial role in mitigating climate change while advancing the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and can provide natural solutions to climate impacts through mitigation, adaptation and resilience, complementing essential efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They protect coastal habitats, maintain healthy ecosystems, and prevent disturbances to carbon-storing sediments. By protecting blue carbon ecosystems like seagrasses, mangroves, and salt marshes, MPAs help sequester carbon and foster ecosystem resilience.

The Ocean in Crisis: How Climate Change is Reshaping Marine Life

Climate change has introduced a host of threats to marine ecosystems, from rising ocean temperatures and acidification to oxygen depletion. These changes disrupt ecosystems that were once thriving, leading to coral bleaching, the migration of fish species, and the collapse of critical food chains. The impact of these changes extends beyond marine life, affecting fisheries, coastal economies, and even influencing weather patterns across the planet.

MPAs as Nature’s Climate Defenders

MPAs have an important role in protecting blue carbon ecosystems. They directly protect coastal blue carbon habitat, such as coastal wetlands; protect healthy ecosystems and food webs that store carbon in marine life, and transport it to the deep seabed for long-term storage; can prevent bottom disturbance to the carbon stored in sediments; can help address other factors that affect carbon storage, such as the presence of invasive species and pollutants; and provide focal points for restoring blue carbon habitats.

Challenges in MPAs

One of the challenges in MPA management is balancing the ecological health with human activities. Marine ecosystems are complex and interconnected, making difficult to define boundaries and manage them effectively. The dynamic nature of this environment, influenced by tides, currents, and human activities, complicates the establishment of clear and effective management zones. MPAs often span multiple jurisdictions, necessitating coordination among various governmental and non-governmental entities. This complexity can lead to conflicts and inconsistencies in management practices. Furthermore, balancing the diverse uses of marine resources within MPAs is another significant challenge. Activities such as fishing, tourism, and shipping must be managed to minimize their impact on protected areas. Illegal activities, including poaching, unregulated fishing, and pollution, pose substantial threats to MPAs. These activities undermine conservation efforts and can lead to the degradation of marine habitats.
Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach involving scientific research, effective management, and international cooperation.

Keys to success

The success of MPAs depends on strong governance and stakeholder engagement. Clear, transparent management frameworks and diverse stakeholder engagement tend to have more positive outcomes, both for ecosystems and local communities. Collaborative governance fosters a sense of shared responsibility, which is essential for the long-term sustainability of MPAs. Engaging communities in decision-making processes not only helps align conservation goals with local needs but also strengthens the overall effectiveness of MPAs.

EFFECTIVE in a Nutshell

EFFECTIVE project focuses on improving the effectiveness MPAs by implementing ecosystem-based management solutions across Mediterranean pilot areas. The project brings together nature-based solutions, cutting-edge digital technologies, and stakeholder engagement to address both environmental and socio-economic challenges.

The pilots within EFFECTIVE serve as real-world testing grounds for innovative restoration and conservation strategies. These include:

• • Pilot 1

• • Pilot 2

• • Pilot 3

• • Pilot 4

By addressing site-specific challenges and applying scalable methodologies, EFFECTIVE aims to demonstrate best practices for MPA management, providing valuable insights for replication across European seas.

CONCLUSION

MPAs are a crucial tool in combating climate change. These areas not only protect marine biodiversity but also help store carbon and build resilience in our oceans. While challenges around governance, resource management, and enforcement persist, these obstacles can be overcome through collaboration and creative solutions. EFFECTIVE project is demonstrating how innovative conservation methods, such as artificial reefs and coral nurseries, can enhance MPAs across the Mediterranean. This improves the effectiveness of MPAs, setting a path for stronger, more sustainable marine protection.

Authors

• • Natalia Preciado Mancera

• • María Crespo Mauriz

• • Juan Carlos Sanz González

• • Organisation: CTN Marine Technology Centre

References

https://corcovadoazul.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Duarte-et-al.-2013-1.pdf

Doney, S. C., Ruckelshaus, M., Emmett Duffy, J., Barry, J. P., Chan, F., English, C. A., … & Talley, L. D. (2012). Climate change impacts on marine ecosystems. Annual review of marine science, 4(1), 11-37.

McLeod, E., Salm, R., Green, A. & Almany, J. (2009). Designing marine protected area networks to address the impacts of climate change. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, 7(7), 362-370

O’Regan, S. M., Archer, S. K., Friesen, S. K., & Hunter, K. L. (2021). A global assessment of climate change adaptation in marine protected area management plans. Frontiers in Marine Science, 8, 711085.

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