UK-based eco-engineering design company, Artecology has been selected to take part in a major new marine infrastructure study funded by the European Union.

The MARINEFF project’s mission is to develop and upscale ways of enhancing and protecting coastal and transitional water ecosystems in cross-border Channel regions. Today, marine infrastructures (such as quays, piers, groynes, and moorings) do not always incorporate the enhancement of coastal and transitional water ecosystems.

The Marineff project was selected under the European cross-border cooperation Programme INTERREG VA France (Channel) – England co-funded by the ERDF and involves 9 French and British partners.

Artecology responded to a commission brief from project partner Bournemouth University. Nigel George from Artecology explains, ‘The project brief centred on the idea of developing engineered biomimetic intertidal structures. Our work in creating artificial marine habitat, Vertipools, knowledge of materials and our background in ecology, meant we were in an excellent position to respond to that brief and to bring considerable experience to the MARINEFF project. When we heard recently heard our proposal and application had been accepted by the Anglo-French academic team, we were absolutely delighted. We look forward to working with everyone and continuing to help drive forward all-essential research and development that brings biodiversity to marine infrastructure through ecological enhancement.’

The MARINEFF project will run for a period of three years.

Project website - http://marineff-project.eu/en/marineff-2/

Artecology team working on a previous biomimetic infrastructure project on the Isle of Wight.