Manufacturing Marine Mattresses For Cable Protection

Offshore infrastructure is under growing pressure to minimize environmental impact and maximize marine eco-system services. ECOncrete solutions are designed for infrastructure to create habitat, enhance biodiversity and deliver an overall positive effect on marine life and fish population.

Our concrete marine mattresses are engineered for offshore cable protection and ECOncrete concrete technology is applied by local manufacturers working with their local supply chain. Manufacturing and installation follows standard procedures. Thorough physical model testing and monitoring from previous projects allows us to vouch for stability – also in demanding metocean conditions – and biological performance.

The video below shows ECOncrete technology applied at scale by precast partners across the USA, manufacturing locally for offshore projects to minimize also the transportation footprint – a look at how ecological enhancement can be embedded directly into conventional marine infrastructure manufacturing (see more examples in our projects section).

As environmental expectations rise across the sector, these solutions offer a straightforward path to meeting both engineering and ecological objectives. Watch the video to see how we’re scaling nature-inclusive infrastructure – with local manufacturing and local supply chain.

 

Related:

Canada Investing in Coastal Resilience and Marine Ecosystems

The Canadian government is exploring solutions to avoid and mitigate the ecological damage caused by conventional coastal infrastructure to marine ecosystems. The goal being marine infrastructure that benefits both coastal ecosystems as well as coastal communities.

As part of this effort, the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) and the University of Ottawa partnered with ECOncrete to test the hydraulic stability of Coastalock, our ecologically designed single-layer interlocking concrete armor unit. In this study, the Coastalock units were subjected to extreme wave conditions with satisfactory hydraulic stability results – a key feature for long-term coastal protection.

ECOncrete on the West Coast

Beyond research, Canada is actively implementing ecological infrastructure. Two projects are currently underway in collaboration with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO):

  • Port of Vancouver – ECOncrete’s Armor Blocks are being installed, with ongoing data collection to monitor marine life growth and habitat formation.
  • Port of Prince Rupert, British Columbia – A new revetment with Coastalock units is retrofitting a barge ramp, providing both hydraulic stability and ecological benefits. Researchers are evaluating the installation’s effectiveness in enhancing marine biodiversity.

These initiatives reflect a new standard for coastal infrastructure—one that prioritizes both resilience and environmental responsibility.

Advancing Sustainable Marine Construction

With proven technology and design-engineering expertise, ECOncrete delivers high-performance concrete solutions that enhance biodiversity. Transparency is a core principle of our work, which is why we also provide a certified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for our technology. This third-party-reviewed document details the solution’s environmental footprint in accordance with the International EPD System, ensuring accountability and credibility.

At ECOncrete, our mission is clear: to build stronger, more sustainable coastal structures that actively support aquatic life. We are proud to measure, certify, and communicate the positive impact of our technology – one shoreline at a time.

Transforming New York’s Waterfronts: ECOncrete’s Decade of Impact

ECOncrete has been transforming New York’s waterfronts for over a decade, advancing both infrastructure resilience and marine ecosystem health in one of the world’s most urbanized environments. ECOncrete designs and engineers tailored solutions for shoreline and waterfront protection projects; in New York we’re helping build a more sustainable and resilient city. 

Pioneering Shoreline Protection in Brooklyn Bridge Park

In 2013, ECOncrete partnered with the Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation to enhance the park’s infrastructure near the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Tidepool Armor Units were installed to stabilize the local shoreline and enhance the intertidal ecosystem, while innovative pile jackets provided essential structural support for the piers enhancing the subtidal habitats. As soon as 3 months post installation, and to a greater level today after 12 years, both ecologically enhanced infrastructures are providing preferable habitats for a diversity of local species, demonstrating the ability to harness active infrastructure for biological and ecological purposes without compromising their functional purpose, showing an increase in ecosystem services provided by the structure.

Nature-Inclusive Design at Gansevoort Peninsula

In a more recent project, ECOncrete technology was applied in the terraced shoreline of Gansevoort Peninsula, a key site for the Hudson River Park Trust. Designed in collaboration with Field Operations, the terraced steps incorporated tide pools at every level, creating vibrant aquatic habitats along the shoreline. This approach not only addressed environmental concerns but also strengthened the structural integrity of the peninsula.

 

Living Breakwaters: A Model for Resiliency

As part of New York’s post-Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts, ECOncrete worked with SCAPE on the design of the groundbreaking Living Breakwaters project. This initiative involved constructing multiple breakwaters with hundreds of ECOncrete Armor Blocks and Tide Pool Armor embedded into them, off Staten Island, to mitigate storm surge risks and support biodiversity restoration. The project showcases the dual benefits of our eco-engineering approach—protecting communities while fostering healthy marine ecosystems.

Innovating at South Battery Park Pier Inlet

In downtown Manhattan, ECOncrete is playing a key role in the South Battery Park City Resiliency Project, designing nature-inclusive solutions including wall cladding, tide pools, horizontal tiles, and pier piles. These features not only fortify the waterfront but also create habitats for marine life, contributing to long-term coastal resilience.

East Side Coastal Resiliency: A Comprehensive Approach

ECOncrete is proud to be part of the transformative East Side Coastal Resiliency Project in New York City. The East Side Coastal Resiliency Project is a large-scale initiative designed to mitigate flood risks along the East River while enhancing its ecological functions. ECOncrete’s contributions include nature-based infrastructure elements that integrate seamlessly into the urban waterfront, strengthening shoreline stability and fostering marine biodiversity.

Offshore Cable Protection, Eco-Engineered Scour Protection

ECOncrete has also been applied on the seabed off the New York coastline: ECOncrete eco-engineered Concrete Mattresses are protecting electrical interconnection cables and providing habitat for marine species. In addition, a novel Scour Protection solution, designed to protect the foundations of offshore structures, is currently researched in a NYSERDA funded project, with monitoring and analysis of the positive effects on the fish population executed by Stony Brooks university. 

Building Resilient Communities and Ecosystems

New York’s waterfront is unique – not just in its scale, but in its ambitions to protect and rebuild nature while ensuring urban resilience. ECOncrete is making an impact by consulting, designing, and engineering solutions that work in tandem with local partners, concrete manufacturers, and agencies. Our collaborations extend beyond infrastructure; we work with organizations like the Billion Oyster Project to restore marine habitats and with Stony Brook University to deliver the scientific research needed to expand eco-engineering efforts.

Through partnerships with the DEC, NYSERDA, and other stakeholders, ECOncrete is laying the groundwork for future offshore applications, from wind farms to port infrastructure, ensuring that nature-inclusive solutions become a standard part of New York’s blue economy.

Empowering New York Harbor School Students and Advancing Science

In a unique collaboration, ECOncrete is proud to partner with motivated students from the New York Harbor School. See their insightful report below.

In 2023, ECOncrete was awarded funding from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to advance Nature-Inclusive Design for Offshore Wind by conducting a scientific evaluation of nature-inclusive designs in offshore wind marine infrastructure and their associated benefits for fisheries.

This multi-year ecological monitoring project includes ECOncrete collaborating with researchers from Stonybrook’s School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences. The focus is to monitor the potential for enhancing site biodiversity at offshore wind farms by incorporating ecologically designed scour protection units as part of the wind farm. The monitoring examines changes in fish population and diversity associated with these structures.

As part of this initiative, ECOncrete invited student researchers from the New York Harbor School, located on Governors Island, New York, NY, to participate. The program included five students and staff members who took part in fieldwork and laboratory analysis. Their activities included a site visit at 12 Mile Reef—an area designated by the NYCDEC for artificial reef activities—and lab-based analyses such as digestive studies on black sea bass and environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling.

Cody Garrison, PhD. from Stony Brook University leads a team of students in eDNA sampling from the field

Field Visit Account by Students George Oddy and Rory Chau:

“On the research trip, we began our day early by boarding a boat to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using a Niskin bottle. A total of 10 samples were collected, with three replicates taken from each of three different sample sites: concrete, control, and ECOncrete, plus one blank sample. To ensure the samples were collected at the correct depth, we used a weight to submerge the bottle – and then retrieved it with the help of a motor pulley system.

Once back at the lab, we began the filtering process. Four liters from each sample were passed through filters, and the filtered samples were sent to another lab for eDNA analysis. On the final day, we worked with Krystina from Prof. Chen’s lab on analyzing the stomach contents and extracting otoliths from black sea bass individuals.

Analyzing stomach contents with Krystina Braid

We discovered a variety of prey items, including Jonah crabs, Atlantic rock crabs, sea mice, and clams. During this process, we gained insight into the lab’s methodology and discussed the challenges and successes they had encountered during previous sample collection trips.

As we return to Harbor School, we are continuing our research through a senior project in marine biology based on the work we did at Stonybrook with ECOncrete.

We learned a lot about what makes a real research project work. It was fascinating to learn from experienced scientists and help find real solutions to one of the biggest problems of our time. One thing we learned about research is that while you can’t stop every problem from happening, you can reduce the chances and be ready for the few that do come up.

While working on the water, we realized how important it is to plan ahead, especially when it comes to things like clothing—since it got cold and wet on the boat.

Switching to renewable energy is crucial for fighting climate change, but we also need to make sure it doesn’t harm nature. As we use more clean energy like solar, wind, and hydropower, we have to think about how they affect wildlife and the environment. By reducing pollution and carefully planning these energy projects, we can make sure that moving to renewable energy helps both the planet and the fight against climate change.”

Looking Ahead:

Together, we’re building a future where nature thrives, and communities come together to protect and celebrate our marine ecosystems. Projects like this highlight the importance of integrating ecological considerations into renewable energy development, ensuring that solutions for climate change also support biodiversity and environmental health.

Learn more about this project:

Offshore Wind Fisheries and Biodiversity Research Project

Droplock Ecological Concrete Scour Protection Deployed

Biodiversity Results of a Nature-Inclusive Cable Protection Solution

Red Eléctrica, the Spanish Transmission System Operator, selected ECOncrete’s nature-inclusive cable protection to stabilize and protect a new interconnector cable in a rock-reef trench in an environmentally sensitive area. Restoring the reef habitat and supporting marine biodiversity was required to minimize the environmental impact.

The Project

ECOncrete designed and delivered a customized trench block cable protection for this application. The blocks were cast with ECOncrete’s bio-enhancing admixture and installed in May 2022 to protect the new interconnector cable between Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. Periodical monitoring results showed rapid colonization with a wealth of native species and integration into the surrounding rock reef environment.

Monitoring Results

21 months after installation, the biological monitoring results are in:

  • Promoted algal colonization, serving as attractants for diverse benthic species and small fish.
  • Demonstrated analogy with adjacent natural reef habitats.
  • Showed high biodiversity value, with more organisms and greater species diversity compared to nearby natural reefs.

Takeaways

The units promote a healthy and stable ecosystem, showing significant potential to integrate into marine environments effectively. This project highlights the synergy between infrastructure and ecological restoration, advancing sustainable marine practices.

For further insights into the success of our nature-inclusive cable protection solution and the detailed monitoring findings, download the full case study, available in both English and Spanish below.

Unlocking the Future of Coastal Infrastructure: On-Demand ASCE Webinar with ECOncrete

Join Dr. Andrew Rella from ECOncrete for an insightful ASCE 1 hour course exploring nature-inclusive applications in urban waterfronts and coastal infrastructure.

On-demand webinar
PDH: This course is worth 1 PDH
Title: Design for Biodiversity: Nature-Inclusive Applications in Urban Waterfronts & Coastal Infrastructure (7015WCW2025)

Dr. Rella shares valuable insights on:

  • Testing and Compliance: How rigorous testing ensures bio-enhanced concrete meets structural and environmental standards.
  • Nature-Inclusive Design: Innovative approaches that balance infrastructure needs with biodiversity support.
  • Real-World Applications: Examples of coastal and marine projects demonstrating these concepts in action.

This session is ideal for professionals looking to integrate sustainability into their designs or explore new innovations in coastal engineering.

Access the course now

ECOncrete’s contribution to SDG14

The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14), Life Below Water, promotes the sustainable use of oceans, preserving marine environments while supporting responsible development. ECOncrete’s mission aligns perfectly with SDG 14. ECOncrete provides concrete technology that  allows for infrastructure development  while actively stimulating marine life and biodiversity. By strengthening physical structures and creating thriving aquatic habitats, we’re setting a new standard for innovative offshore construction.

Resilient Coastal Infrastructure Is Urgently Needed

As the climate crisis intensifies and the risk of extreme weather and sea-level rise grows, the need for resilient infrastructure becomes more urgent. ECOncrete offers solutions designed not only to withstand these changing conditions but also to enhance local marine environments. Our Nature Inclusive Design technology incorporates features that attract marine life to the concrete surface, supporting diverse ecosystems and improving underwater habitats. With our approach, we not only conserve existing ecosystems but also encourage new growth.

An octopus and other marine life including various algae in an ECOncrete Coastalock Shoreline Protection Unit in the San Diego Port project.

Resilient Green Infrastructure Case Study: Port of Vigo

At the Port of Vigo in Spain, our seawall and coastal protection structures demonstrated marine life growth as early as three months post-installation. Species like green and brown algae, barnacles, snails, crabs, and starfish thrive on ECOncrete’s bio-enhancing concrete, an achievement not seen with standard concrete. By designing with SDG 14 in mind, we create structures that support marine life, which in turn strengthens these structures by mitigating scour defects typical of conventional materials.

A crab, algae, tubeworms, and other marine life on a seawall in the Port of Vigo, the Living Ports project, 3 months post deployment

Biodiversity And Concrete Carbon Footprint Reduction

Our commitment to sustainability also means reducing carbon emissions. ECOncrete’s patented admix incorporates recycled materials, and our designs encourage calcification—a natural process where marine organisms form shells and skeletons using carbonate from seawater. By fostering these natural processes, we further reduce the carbon footprint of marine infrastructure.

ECOncrete is driving innovation in ocean conservation and sustainable development by promoting an evidence-based, nature-positive approach to marine construction. From design to installation, we embed sustainability into every aspect of our concrete solutions.

Considering Marine Habitats AND Structural Integrity

Traditionally, concrete infrastructure has overlooked marine habitats, with little consideration for aquatic life in waterfronts, breakwaters, ports, and offshore construction. Since our founding in 2012, ECOncrete has been a pioneer in shifting this perspective—bringing attention to the need for regenerative, eco-friendly concrete that supports marine ecosystems. We meet and exceed environmental, structural, and economic goals, validating that construction can be both functional and beneficial to nature.

ECOncrete’s technology proves that economy and ecology can work hand-in-hand, offering a unique solution that serves the needs of both infrastructure and marine ecosystems.

Background on SDGs: In 2012, the United Nations (UN) formed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address urgent global issues like poverty and climate change, aiming for completion by 2030. The SDGs comprise 17 goals focused on tackling specific global challenges—clean energy, potable water, and sustainable industrialization among them.

BloombergNEF Report Spotlights ECOncrete’s Role in Nature-Loss Solutions

BloombergNEF’s recent analyst report Opportunity Blossoms: The Business of Curbing Nature Loss examines twelve companies providing solutions that support nature while offering financial opportunities. 

 

In the report, ECOncrete is featured for its commercial and ecological potential. The report highlights the success achieved in reducing the concrete’s carbon footprint, support of biodiversity – and the increasing number of infrastructure projects applying ECOncrete and the robust compound annual growth rate. Also stating “ECOncrete taps into a market worth $178 billion in 2023” by offering technology that enables marine infrastructure to work in harmony with natural environments. 

Download the full report from the Bloomberg NEF website:  Full BloombergNEF Report (PDF)

ECOncrete remains committed to developing sustainable, nature-inclusive marine infrastructure solutions that contribute to global biodiversity targets.

Achieving GBF Targets With Nature-Inclusive Design In Marine Concrete Infrastructure

The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) has emerged as a roadmap for global conservation efforts. With 23 ambitious targets, the GBF emphasizes integrated management, ecosystem restoration, and resilience against climate change. Checking in on our progress toward the ocean and ecological goals set for 6 years time is essential – are we on track for the protection of 30% of our oceans, and the restoration of 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030?

At ECOncrete, we’re focusing on several strategic priorities to turn the goals in the Framework into action:

  • Prioritize marine biodiversity in policy discussions and national action plans.
  • Create opportunities to promote marine biodiversity at scale in the design of offshore wind infrastructure.
  • Strengthen coastal resilience with biodiversity in waterfront and shoreline projects.
  • Develop standardized metrics to assess marine biodiversity impacts and ecosystem health.

ECOncrete’s Contribution to Marine and Coastal Biodiversity

ECOncrete’s technology offers a unique solution to several of the GBF’s targets related to marine and coastal ecosystems. By ecologically enhancing the design and functionality of marine infrastructure, ECOncrete helps bridge the gap between engineering and ecological stewardship.

How ECOncrete Supports GBF Targets

GBF Target 1: Planning and Managing Areas to Reduce Biodiversity Loss

ECOncrete’s technology integrates nature-inclusive design (NID) into marine infrastructure. This approach not only strengthens infrastructure but also supports the creation of rich, biodiverse habitats within managed areas. By incorporating ecological principles, ECOncrete contributes to more effective spatial planning and management, helping to preserve areas of high biodiversity importance.

GBF Target 2: Restoring Degraded Ecosystems

ECOncrete plays a crucial role in restoring marine and coastal ecosystems. Its technology enhances the ecological value of artificial structures by promoting the growth of marine organisms. This restoration capability supports the GBF’s goal of restoring 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030, improving overall biodiversity and ecosystem functions.

GBF Target 8: Minimizing Climate Change Impacts and Building Resilience

The technology developed by ECOncrete helps mitigate climate change impacts through carbon sequestration and enhancing the resilience of coastal structures. By integrating features that support marine life and improve water quality, ECOncrete contributes to building adaptive capacity in coastal ecosystems, aligning with efforts to reduce climate change effects on biodiversity.

Fish feed off of marine life growing on the ECOncrete Coastalock Single Layer Interlocking Coastal Protection System installed at the Bouzas revetment in the Living Ports Project, the Port of Vigo, Spain. Photograph by Maria Moltesen, DTU

 

GBF Target 11: Enhancing Nature’s Contributions to People

ECOncrete’s innovations restore and enhance ecosystem functions that benefit people, such as improving water quality, providing coastal protection, and sustaining fishery resources. These contributions are crucial for maintaining nature’s services, which include regulating air and water quality and protecting against natural hazards.

GBF Target 12: Enhancing Green Spaces and Urban Planning

While ECOncrete primarily focuses on marine environments, its technology supports the broader goal of enhancing green and blue spaces. By integrating biodiversity-enhancing features into coastal and waterfront projects, ECOncrete helps create accessible, high-quality urban spaces that benefit both human communities and natural ecosystems.

GBF Target 14: Integrating Biodiversity in Decision-Making

ECOncrete exemplifies how ecological considerations can be integrated into infrastructure development. The company’s approach demonstrates a commitment to incorporating biodiversity into engineering and design processes, aligning with the GBF’s goal of integrating biodiversity into all levels of decision-making.

GBF Target 15: Business Accountability for Biodiversity

ECOncrete sets a benchmark for businesses to assess and disclose their biodiversity-related impacts. By transparently showcasing the ecological benefits of its technology, ECOncrete encourages sustainable practices and supports efforts to reduce negative impacts on biodiversity.

 

The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) has gained traction as a vital roadmap for conservation efforts worldwide, signaling a shift in the fields of engineering and construction, particularly concerning marine and coastal infrastructure. More stakeholders and regulators in coastal and offshore regions are increasingly attentive to the implications of the GBF, advocating for policies that promote sustainable practices.

In this context, integrating nature-inclusive designs into infrastructure development is not just a forward-thinking approach but an essential strategy for fostering resilient ecosystems and sustainable communities. Solutions like ECOncrete exemplify how the construction industry can engage with biodiversity, paving the way for a healthier planet and a more sustainable future for all.

More about ECOncrete:

Planning Infrastructure as Habitat for Biodiversity

White Paper: Achieving Biodiversity Uplift on Marine Infrastructure

See a selection of case-studies in our website projects section >>

PHYSICAL EVALUATION OF THE HYDRODYNAMIC STABILITY OF AN ECO-ENGINEERED ARMOURING UNIT
Eco-engineering for Climate Change—Floating to the Future
The Design, Production and Validation of the Biological and Structural Performance of an Ecologically Engineered Concrete Block Mattress – A Nature Inclusive Design for Shoreline and Offshore construction
Blue Is the New Green: Eco-engineering for Climate Change

Coastalock Study by National Research Council (NRC) and University of Ottawa

ECOncrete’s Coastalock single-layer armor units were recently tested in collaboration with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) and the University of Ottawa. Led by researchers Serim Dogaç Sayar, Scott Baker, and Dr. Ioan Nistor, the study focused on evaluating the hydraulic stability and performance of these innovative units. Below, S. Dogaç provides a brief summary of the testing process. Dogac presented these findings at ICEC 2024 in Québec City and ICCE 2024 in Rome. More details are available upon request.

Concrete structures have traditionally been used to protect shorelines from erosion, often disrupting local ecosystems in the process. To address this, ECOncrete developed Coastalock armor units, eco-friendly concrete blocks designed to provide effective coastal protection while simultaneously promoting a diverse aquatic habitat.

Hydraulic Performance Tests of Coastalock Single Layer Armor Units

The Coastalock units were tested at NRC’s Large Wave-Current Flume facility in Ottawa, Canada, where two common types of model breakwaters were constructed at large scale (1/15). The low-crested and emergent rubble mound breakwater (RMBW) models were built as permeable structures using core material, underlayer rocks, toe armor, and Coastalock single layer armor units placed along the seaside, crest, and lee side of the breakwaters. More than 600 model scale replica Coastalock armor units were produced, each weighing around 1 kg.

Fig 1. Coastalock armor units on Emergent RMBW model on 1/15 scale

The units demonstrated commendable resilience under a wide range of wave conditions. The low-crested breakwater model showed efficient wave breaking performance with no failures, while the emergent RMBW model displayed expected levels of overtopping and wave reflection, similar to traditional rubble mound rock breakwaters.

The research also focused on the influence of the size of the underlayer rocks beneath the breakwater’s armor layer and the lateral spacing between Coastalock units on the stability of the breakwater.

Fig 2. Waves breaking on Emergent RMBW Model

The tests highlighted the importance of hydraulic stability and performance in armor units, especially in protecting coasts from erosion and storm surge impacts. The Coastalock units’ ability to withstand severe conditions while offering significant ecological benefits marks a significant advancement in sustainable coastal engineering.

Significance of Ecologically Engineered Armor Units

This project reflects a growing trend towards integrating sustainability into coastal protection strategies and sets the stage for further exploration and potential broader application of these innovative units in shoreline protection projects. The collaboration between ECOncrete, the University of Ottawa, and NRC demonstrates a commitment to developing effective and environmentally responsible solutions for coastal defense.

More on the Coastalock:

ECOncrete Projects Featured in 3rd Edition of the EWN Atlas

Environmentally Solid Foundations

Three diverse applications of ECOncrete solutions are showcased in the most recent volume of Engineering With Nature’s (EWN) Atlas. This atlas from the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) highlights innovation, cutting-edge design and projects around the world that can work symbiotically with the environment to preserve the beauty of nature and natural habitats. 

 

Shark River Island

The shoreline of Shark River Island in Neptune, New Jersey, at the Atlantic Coast is constantly pounded by waves, boat wakes and flooding. This was exacerbated by severe damage from Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The Homeowner’s Association sought out ECOncrete to produce a long lasting and environmentally conscious solution to their challenges that was both economically feasible and would protect their critical shores from erosion, while also respecting the marine environment. We assessed the site and used our concrete block mattresses, developed with BESSER, to control and protect against erosion, as well as a berm with vegetation to prevent erosion during extreme weather. 

Infrastructure built with our technology offers both international standard shoreline protection and marine habitat creation. In this case study, 19 biological species have already colonized the mattresses. 

Learn more:
Project
EWN Atlas Entry

 

Newlyn Bay Coastal Armoring

Newlyn, a coastal town in Cornwall, England, lies on the shore of Mount’s Bay. This seaside town has long relied on seawalls and breakwaters to defend itself against floods and water damage. The Newlyn Coastal Research and Development Project, a partnership project between the Environment Agency and Kier and Atkins, sought to “shore up” these barriers. ECOncrete, along with three other companies, were chosen for the project. The goal was to increase biodiversity while simultaneously strengthening the breakwater. The ECOncrete armor units have lower carbon emissions compared to standard concrete and are a nature-positive solution, creating habitats for marine life. This project was awarded the Concrete Society’s Devon & Cornwall Region Sustainable Concrete Award in 2022. 

Learn more:
Project 
EWN Atlas Entry

 

Port of Málaga 

At the Port of Málaga, a premier superyacht marina in Spain, ECOncrete’s technology has been applied to construct a vertical breakwater. The port’s local contractor seamlessly integrated ECOncrete into the standard casting and construction process, using our admixture, surface agents, and nature-based design for the blocks’ exterior. In less than nine months, the blocks developed diverse live cover, with various species settling on the new substrate, elevating the entire port’s ecosystem.

This addition enhances both the structural integrity and ecological longevity of the marina, ensuring it can withstand harsh marine conditions. ECOncrete’s innovative design promotes durability and resilience through bioprotection, a living layer of sessile organisms that colonizes the concrete, reducing maintenance needs and extending the infrastructure’s lifespan. The textured surface also fosters biodiversity, improving nearby water quality and supporting a healthy surrounding ecosystem.

ECOncrete’s goal is to foster a symbiotic relationship between the built environment and nature. This commitment was recognized when the project received the IGY Málaga Marina Award and the International Prize “Premios Excelencias Turísticas Azul 2021” for its dedication to marine environmental sustainability.

Learn more:
Project
EWN Atlas Entry

ECOncrete’s Head of Biology Presenting at NYSERDA’s State of the Science Workshop

At this year’s State of the Science Workshop on Offshore Wind Energy, Wildlife, and Fisheries Yaeli Rosenberg, PhD, will be presenting about ECOncrete’s work on the development, deployment and monitoring of the novel Scour Protection System designed for biodiversity.


ROV imaging from recent environmental surveying

The biennial State of the Science workshop is hosted by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) on behalf of the Environmental Technical Working Group (E-TWG), with the goal of sharing knowledge about offshore wind energy development, wildlife, and fisheries in the eastern United States and beyond.

Yaeli Rosenberg, PhD., Head of Biology at ECOncrete, will be presenting ‘Evaluating the Environmental Performance of a Newly Designed Ecological Scour Protection Unit’. Yaeli will also share preliminary results from our 2-year biological survey that utilized different methods to better understand the ecological impact of scour protection units on the sea floor.

Time: 11:00 am- 12:30 pm Sessions 23- 24
Mitigation Approaches for Wildlife and Fisheries
Location: Auditorium and Ballroom B

For more on our novel ECOncrete Scour Protection System click here and reach out to discuss with our interdisciplinary team of biologists and engineers.

More:

Port of San Diego Project Wins Prestigious Climate Leadership Award

The Port of San Diego and ECOncrete have been honored by The Climate Registry (TCR) with the Innovative Partnership Award in the 2024 Climate Leadership Awards. The prestigious accolade recognizes exemplary leadership in reducing carbon pollution and addressing climate change through innovative solutions and sustainable practices.

Supported by the Port’s Blue Economy Incubator, ECOncrete developed and deployed an interlocking single layer coastal armor system (Coastalock) to replace traditional shoreline armoring, or riprap, by providing ecological armoring, shoreline stabilization, and well-defined local ecosystems that mimic natural tide pools.

Coastalock were deployed in two sections along the Port’s Harbor Island, where the current waterfront armor protection is traditional shoreline armoring, or riprap rock mound, which offers limited habitat value. Monitoring of the pilot project occurred over 26 months and included reports done every six months. The reports investigated the effectiveness of the project’s structural integrity and ability to recruit native marine species, in comparison to control units of riprap.

Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Gain

The scientific monitoring confirms the COASTALOCK units have become home to a wide variety of sea life including shellfish (oyster and mussels), sea hares, nudibranch, coralline algae, sea stars, acorn barnacles, sea anemones, lobsters, crabs, and even great blue heron. Based off preliminary analysis, the deployed COASTALOCK units have 310.8 m2 of surface area and have an annual CaCO3 growth 739,704 grams per year, an annual Co2 equivalent (CO2e) of .088 tons. The control units, which were legacy riprap with the same surface area, only have CACO3 buildup of 93,240 grams per year, nearly eight times less than the COASTALOCK units.

Growth on a Coastalock observed 27 months after deployment

Innovative Solution and Tangible Results

“We are deeply honored to receive this esteemed award for our ECOncrete partnership,” said Chairman Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “The ECOncrete project embodies our dedication to implementing innovative solutions that mitigate climate change impacts while fostering the growth of our blue economy.”

“The healthy ecosystem developing on the COASTALOCK revetment at the Port of San Diego is the most powerful testimony for the Port and ECOncrete’s successful partnership,” said Ido Sella, Co-Founder and CEO of ECOncrete. “It is truly a lighthouse project of ecologically responsible marine construction that highlights the feasibility in harnessing coastal infrastructure to support and enhance marine biodiversity at scale.”

More

Planning Infrastructure As Habitat For Biodiversity

The loss of habitat is a direct cause of change in coastal ecosystems, and immediately responsible for the loss of marine biodiversity. With ECOncrete we elevate marine infrastructure to create habitat. On this Biodiversity Day we are proud to highlight how we have been ‘part of the plan’ for over a decade, and how we prevent loss of coastal biodiversity and ecosystems with our experience in engineering and marine biology, research and scientific monitoring. 

Loss of marine biodiversity is highest in coastal areas largely due to conflicting uses of coastal habitats. With the increase in humans populating coastal areas, concrete based coastal and marine infrastructure (CMI) such as ports, piers, industrial facilities, and coastal defense elements dominate coastal zones worldwide. 

ECOncrete’s solutions and technology are part of the plan to halt and reverse this massive and accelerating loss of biodiversity, where for more than a decade we have been building, integrating our technology into infrastructure projects, monitoring the outcomes, collecting reliable data, and changing the way marine infrastructure is built. Instead of building gray, biologically deprived waterfronts and coastlines, we can build with the environment in mind, and create life on concrete. 

Each project starts with identifying the local environment’s needs and planning how to facilitate target species by creating favorable habitats for local organisms to thrive. Water-retaining elements, designed niches, tidal pools, overhangs, and caves, allow a diverse ecosystem to thrive on the infrastructure.

The combination of our patented ECOncrete Admixture, optimizing the concrete’s chemical properties to encourage diverse settlement, with nature-inclusive design and engineering, leads to significant enhancement of biodiversity at scale without compromising the structural integrity of the project – be it coastal protection, offshore infrastructure, ports and working waterfronts. 

Our technology is optimized and proven to integrate seamlessly with standard construction methods, and meets all structural requirements and standards. 

Biological monitoring of infrastructure projects around the world shows ECOncrete’s abilities to create and restore flourishing ecosystems, and to enhance biodiversity on any marine infrastructure – as seen in the image below, taken 27 months post deployment in the port of San Diego. Any marine biologist looking at this photograph will not need further explanation- the once biologically deprived riprap turned into a healthy ecosystem.

ECOncrete is proud to be “part of the plan” of infrastructure construction projects around the world. And with biodiversity becoming a priority in construction today – not only on Biodiversity Day but every day – we are seeing regulators, policy makers, project owners and developers around the world recognizing the feasibility of building infrastructure that is engineered for us AND for the environment. Creating habitat, countering a main cause for the loss of marine biodiversity. 

For detailed reports, please contact info@econcretetech.com

For further reading about ECOncrete’s technology and research:
White Paper: Achieving Biodiversity Uplift on Marine Infrastructure
PHYSICAL EVALUATION OF THE HYDRODYNAMIC STABILITY OF AN ECO-ENGINEERED ARMOURING UNIT
Eco-engineering for Climate Change—Floating to the Future
The Design, Production and Validation of the Biological and Structural Performance of an Ecologically Engineered Concrete Block Mattress – A Nature Inclusive Design for Shoreline and Offshore construction
Blue Is the New Green: Eco-engineering for Climate Change

See a selection of case-studies in our website projects section >>

Case Study: Blue Port Infrastructure at the Port of Vigo – the Living Ports Project

Showcasing port infrastructure that also meets environmental goals – the Living Ports project in the Port of Vigo, backed by the EU Horizon 2020 programme and consisting of a consortium led by ECOncrete, is showing ecological uplift, marine biodiversity developing and community interest. 

Please find the full case study including relevant details below for download. The project includes nature positive quay walls installed in the Port of Vigo, the Nautilus underwater observatory, and our Coastalock single layer coastal armor at the Bouzas revetment. Some exciting results include:

  • Biological monitoring shows diverse marine wildlife flourishing on the seawalls and coastal armor 
  • Signals a positive future for nature inclusive marine infrastructure and increased investments in environmental solutions
  • Close to 30,000 visitors within the first 7 months to the underwater observatory achieves a project goal of creating a community engagement space

The consortium worked to ensure a successful installation of an underwater observatory, built by Cardama Shipyard, one of the consortium members; the ECOncrete nature positive sea wall panels and coastal armor were built and installed using local labor and contractors; monitoring of the installations has begun with the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) observing the benefits of our nature positive solutions, including a separate project monitoring the effect on noise pollution underwater.

Download full Case Study (English):
Living Ports: Nature-Inclusive Port Infrastructure (Case Study)

Download full Case Study (Spanish):
Living Ports Infraestructuras Portuarias Integradas En La Naturaleza (Estudio De Caso)

Further information:

 

Drone photograph: Julius Valhav; underwater photograph: Maria Moltesen

BOEM Scour Protection Study – Effectiveness of Nature Inclusive Design Materials

To identify optimal solutions for scour protection in offshore wind energy infrastructure, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), a US government agency which focuses on environmental protection and offshore energy, is conducting a study that analyzes the efficacy of various innovative marine infrastructure suggested for cable and scour protection around offshore wind energy structures. 

BOEM is evaluating ECOncrete’s scour protection concrete, as well four alternative solutions to nature-positive marine construction. These materials are being tested to stimulate fish habitats adjacent to the energy facilities. They must stabilize the structures, as well as accommodate the local ecology. Marine life and habitat growth is being closely monitored from 2022 – 2026. 

ECOncrete Nature Inclusive Scour Protection about to be deployed in the water (image courtesy BOEM)

The study is underway at the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Facility and BOEM will compare the results with standard cable protection materials presently in use at the Block Island Wind Farm in Rhode Island. We are looking forward to the results of the study.

Research like this is critical, as it underpins the fact that regulations are needed to outline and quantify how concrete should perform both structurally and environmentally. It is necessary that marine construction is addressing both the economical and industrial requirements as well as the environmental concerns.

Find out more: 

– NYSERDA Project

– Cable Protection Case Study 

– Long Island Sound ECOncrete Cable Protection 

– Vineyard Wind Cable Protection

 

All images in this post are courtesy of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, used under license

Biomimicry in Action: Adapting the Built World for Nature

ECOncrete’s technology has been highlighted in the latest white paper published by the leading engineering services and consulting firm, Jacobs, in collaboration with Biomimicry 3.8, a biology-inspired consulting company. 

The white paper details the industry shift from sustainability to the proactive and innovative approach of regeneration and regenerative design. The core theme remains the same: harnessing the power of nature to improve our infrastructure, cities and marine ecosystems. The first generation focused on environmentally conscientious construction, with little or no attention paid to interaction with the environment.   

Executive Summary

Full Report

The updated, regenerative design-approach views nature as an ally, and a resource that we can collaborate with. ECOncrete works in tandem with this vision to create materials that encourage biological development from the moment they are installed in a particular biosphere. 

As regenerative design continues to improve, it is important to thoroughly analyze data to evaluate the success both structurally and environmentally. Installations by ECOncrete are already demonstrating success around the world. These installations, such as our marine cable protection in Fuerteventura, Spain, have been proven to work practically, while displaying biodiversity. The scientific data continues to be collected and analyzed with very positive results. We continue to be the vanguard for advancing marine construction and habitat regeneration. 

To download: the paper

To download: the executive summary

ECOncrete selected as a partner for N-EWN

ECOncrete is honored to be selected as a partner for the US Network for Engineering with Nature (N-EWN). We are looking forward to actively engaging with the The N-EWN executive committee, N-EWN partners and countless stakeholders to change how future coastal and marine infrastructure look and function.

The Network for Engineering With Nature (N-EWN) is a community of researchers, practitioners, and educators working together to advance Engineering With Nature. N-EWN’s approach relies on the belief that infrastructure challenges are best met through rich and in-depth collaboration,  transdisciplinary teamwork, real-world applications, and education & outreach.

This approach necessitates partnerships and connectivity across organizations, including government (federal, tribal,  state, and local), universities, research institutions, non-profit partners, and the private sector. Building and maintaining effective connections across this spectrum requires a clear understanding of the structure and governance of the network.

With this commitment comes tangible outreach, from education to policy makers, and the support of technical initiatives that will drive the implementation process of NBS, ensuring that biodiversity goals continue to thrive in the future.

At ECOncrete we have 10+ years of experience in nature based design, engineering and construction, enhancing concrete infrastructure to support marine biodiversity. Our technology is founded in scientific R&D based on marine biology and civil engineering principles. Our interdisciplinary teams made up of marine biologists, designers, architects, concrete specialists and civil engineers, are looking forward to engaging in the Network to ensure that marine biodiversity goals continue to thrive in the future.

Upcoming Events

As an advisory member of the N-EWN, we will be presenting case studies and best practices for nature-inclusive infrastructure.

Thursday June 20th, online: Ido Sella, Co-Founder and CEO, presenting ‘Design for Biodiversity, Nature-Inclusive Applications in Urban Waterfronts & Coastal Infrastructure’. This webinar is part of the N-EWN Knowledge Series: A Continuing Education Series about Engineering with Nature.  Register now to join the N-EWN webinar online (free) 

For more information see partner section on: the N-EWN official website

Webinar: Subsea Grids Supporting Marine Biodiversity

Our Head of Biology, Yaeli Rosenburg, Ph.D., participated in a recent webinar hosted by the Renewables Grid Initiative (RGI) and the Offshore Coalition for Energy and Nature (OCEaN). Yaeli presented alongside Roberto Cabria García from Red Eléctrica, showcasing ECOncrete’s technology and how our innovative nature inclusive solutions for subsea cable protection in Spain were utilised.

Our project in the Canary Islands provides a blueprint for the construction of nature-positive cable protection, bridging sustainability and & grid development by providing biodiversity recovery opportunities while meeting engineering requirements.

Watch the recording of the webinar now:

More resources:

 

White Paper: Achieving Biodiversity Uplift on Marine Infrastructure

This white paper discusses how ECOncrete technology can promote marine biodiversity as integral part of concrete-based coastal and marine infrastructure.

Although marine species richness accounts for only 4% of global diversity, life began in the sea, and much of deep diversity is still primarily or exclusively marine. Nevertheless, our knowledge of marine diversity in the present is poor compared to our knowledge of terrestrial organisms. And appreciation for the dramatic changes in marine ecosystems that have occurred is only just beginning to emerge.

“ECOncrete’s installations across the world indicate that slight modifications of concrete composition and design can improve the capabilities of concrete-based coastal and marine infrastructures to support marine fauna and flora and provide valuable ecosystem services.”

Why is it important to promote biodiversity on marine infrastructure?

Around 70% of marine infrastructures are made of concrete. Due to the onset of climate change, rising sea levels are prompting the expansion and construction of new coastline protection project developments globally with even more concrete marine infrastructure (CMI). However, CMI damages local marine life, by preventing settlement and growth due to their surface composition and leaching adverse chemicals into the water, and only the most resilient – and coincidentally – invasive species dominate.

However, ECOncrete has demonstrated that it is possible to enhance biodiversity through changes in concrete chemical composition, roughness, surface texture, and the addition of variously sized pits or holes. This whitepaper presents research findings on how ECOncrete technology enables biodiversity uplift on marine infrastructure, click here to download the white paper Achieving Biodiversity Uplift on Marine Infrastructure.

 

CNN Business Features ECOncrete

CNN Business reporting in the Inventing Tomorrow segment how ECOncrete helps coastal marine ecosystems while providing stronger, longer-lasting, concrete for marine construction. 

Click to watch Inventing Tomorrow about ECOncrete – on CNN Business

 

ECOncrete Protects Power Transmission in Long Islandsound

Concrete Products explains how Eversouce was able to secure existing undersea cables while also laying the foundation for ecological growth in their new article.

https://lsc-pagepro.mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?m=61247&i=720751&p=24&ver=html5

Dr. Ido Sella on Making Structures More Environmentally Friendly

In New Civil Engineer’s new article, ECOncrete CEO Dr. Ido Sella explains how the construction industry is undergoing an eco-friendly shift that will make the environmental impact a core consideration of future projects.

Global Cement Magazine | ECOncrete – Building with Nature

In a new article featured in Global Cement Magazine (September 2021) ECOncrete CEO Dr. Ido Sella explains the ecological problems traditional concrete poses to coastal marine ecosystems and how ECOncrete is collaborating with partners to tackle these issues.

Read The Article Online:
Concrete And Coastal Marine Ecosystems – Ecological Problems 

Case Study: Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Concrete Based Coastal and Marine Infrastructure

ECOncrete – Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Concrete Based Coastal and Marine Infrastructure

Case study by: Raviv Shirazi, Dr. Ido Sella, Dr. Shimrit Perkol-Finkel

Scientists claim that at least 5% of humanity’s carbon footprint comes from the concrete industry, both from energy use, and from the carbon dioxide by-product associated with the production of cement, one of concrete’s principal components.

 

Concrete is the main construction material globally, accounting for over 70% of Coastal and Marine Infrastructure (CMI) such as ports, coastal defence structures and waterfronts. Standard Portland cement based concrete CMI support low biological diversity and are typically dominated by nuisance and invasive species.

ECOncrete®’s bio-enhancing concrete products have a reduced carbon footprint compared to Standard Portland cement based concrete, due to a combination of proprietary admix integrating by-products and recycled materials, and unique ability to enhance biological process such as biocalcification and photosynthesis which facilitate CO2 assimilation.

A Concrete Problem

With nearly half of the human population living along coastlines[1], coastal development, and increasing coastal urbanization  are inevitable. Concrete is the main construction material globally, accounting for over 70% of Coastal and Marine Infrastructure (CMI)[2]. Nonetheless, it is a poor substrate for biological recruitment, and is considered toxic to many marine organisms, mainly due to its unique surface chemistry which impairs the settlement of various marine larvae[3-6]. Subsequently, concrete based CMI commonly attract low diversity biological communities which are primarily dominated by invasive species and very different to those typical in natural habitats[7, 8]. Concrete’s carbon footprint is fairly large due to two factors[9]:

  • The use of fossil fuels in the burning process to heat limestone (CaCO3) in kilns to form CaO, one of the major components in cement.
  • The large quantities of carbon dioxide released during Calcination, the conversion of limestone to CaO proceeds.

According to the most recent survey of Portland Cement Association (PCA), an average of 927 kg (2044 lb) of CO2 are emitted for every 1000 kg (2205 lb) of Portland cement produced in the U.S[10].

Smoke billows from a cement plant

Low Carbon Solution

ECOncrete offers science based solutions that reduce the ecological footprint of CMI, through a suite of high performance environmentally sensitive concrete technologies that enhance the biological and ecological value of CMI while increasing their strength and durability. An innovative combination of bio-enhancing concrete admixtures, increased micro and macro surface roughness, and unique 3D designs, enhance the growth of diverse marine plants and animals on ECOncrete products. These organisms provide a wide array of biological and ecological advantages, including high biodiversity, enhanced ecosystem services, improved aesthetics, and Bioprotection due to the biological communities encrusting the concrete[11, 12]. A significant environmental advantage of ECOncrete technologies is a substantial reduction of carbon footprint in all of the company’s products. This is due to two main pathways: 1) the unique properties of ECOncrete’s admix, which integrates by-products and recycled materials, 2) biological processes including calcification by organisms such as oysters, corals and tube worms and the primary production by photosynthetic organisms through marine flora.

Reduced Carbon Footprint through ECOncrete Admix

While the terms cement and concrete are often used interchangeably, cement is an ingredient of concrete that, when mixed with water, sand and gravel, forms concrete. Concrete has a high carbon footprint mostly due to high content of Portland cement in the concrete. Between 50- 60% of the CO2 emitted during the production of cement results from calcination of calcium carbonate raw materials, the remaining CO2 emitted results from burning fossil fuels[13]. ECOncrete addresses the global need for reducing the carbon footprint of CMI by significantly reducing the amount of Portland cement in the mix compared to standard marine grade concretes. This is achieved by replacing portions of the cement with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). The use of SCMs in concrete work in combination with Portland cement is performed to improve strength and durability, in addition to reducing the CO2 embodied in concrete by as much as 70%, with typical values ranging between 15 – 40%[13]. The SCMs utilized in ECOncrete products are various calcium carbonate based pozzolans, mostly, industrial byproducts which would otherwise end up in landfills. Moreover, all of ECOncrete’s products are manufactured using slag cement (containing ground granulated blast-furnace slag – GGBS) further reducing the products’ CO2 footprint. Slag cement is commonly used as a partial substitute for Portland cement in concrete at a replacement level of up to 50%. When slag cement replaces 50% of the Portland cement, greenhouse gas emissions per cubic yard of concrete are reduced by 45%[14]. For example, while an average of 931 kg of CO2 are emitted for every 1000 kg of ordinary Portland cement, GGB emits only 26.5 kg[15]. As ECOncrete admix uses innovative combinations of slag cement with SCM, we are able to produce concrete products that have as much as 80% less carbon footprint compared to standard Portland cement based concrete products.

ECOncrete Tide Pool blooming with green algae

Carbon Footprint Reduction through Biological Processes

The oceans are a significant sink for atmospheric CO2, removing approximately 30% of current anthropogenic CO2 emissions[16]. In addition, certain biological processes facilitate carbon assimilation and uptake.

Carbon is assimilated into skeletons of marine organisms like oysters, corals, tube worms, coralline algae, and barnacles, in a process called biocalcification[17]. As an integral part of the organism’s growth, it produces a calcitic skeleton. As evident from the chemical equation of the process:

  • CO2(g) ↔ CO2(aq)
  • CO2(aq)+H2O↔H2CO3
  • H2CO3↔HCO3–+H+
  • 2HCO3–+Ca2+↔CaCO3+H2O+CO2

two CO2 molecules are used for generating CaCO3, of which, one is assimilated into the CaCO3 and the other is released as CO2. The bottom line is that for each unit of CaCO3 produced, Dissolve Inorganic Carbon (DIC) is reduced by one unit and alkalinity by two units.
While clearly for every mole CaCO3 formed, one mole of CO2 is produced, yet another CO2 is embedded into the CaCO3 formed. Frankignoulle, Pichon[18] notes that due to the buffering capacity of the seawater, the ratio between CO2 released and CaCO3 participated is about 0.6. Nonetheless, the released CO2 is mainly converted to HCO3[19], and In the short term (hours to days), some or all of the CO2 liberated during carbonate deposition may be absorbed by biological processes on the reef[20].
The potential carbon storage in calcitic skeletons of marine organisms is vast. One Calcium carbonate molecule (composed of 1 Calcium atom [40.078 g/mole], 1 Carbon atom [12.011 g/mole] and 3 Oxygen atoms 47.997 [g/mole]) have a molecular weight of 100.086 g/mole. Thus, in every 1000 g of CaCO3, 120 g of Carbon are stored.

For example, in crushed whelk shells CaCO3 accounts for 95% of the shell material[21]. With one gram of CaCO3 containing 0.119 g carbon (by division of molecular weights), it was estimated that for each tone of shell material there is 0.091 tone of avoided CO2 emissions[22]. Similarly, Ware, Smith[20] assessed a reasonable regional average for gross CaCO3 production of reef provinces (as defined in Smith[23]) is approximately 1.5 [±0.5 ]kg CaCO3 m-2y-1 corresponds to 180 [ ± 60]g C m-2y-1.

Sella and Perkol-Finkel[24] demonstrate that ECOncrete units enhance growth of engineering species such as oysters, serpulid worms, bryozoans and coralline algae significantly more than control Portland cement units. These engineering species (oysters, serpulid worms, barnacles and corals) deposit CaCO3 skeletons onto hard surfaces thus creating valuable habitat to various organisms[25] while also contributing to the structures’ strength, stability and durability[11].
According to Perkol-Finkel and Sella[3] biocalcification onto ECOncrete’s M4 bio-enhanced units averaged at 659.51 g m-2y-1 in temperate Mediterranean Sea environment, and 249.72 g m-2y-1 in a tropical Red Sea environments, with maximal values reaching 1000 g m-2y-1. This rate corresponds to maximal storage of 120 g of Carbon for every square meter of ECOncrete infrastructure yearly.
Notably, in the same study, values of biocalcification on control Portland cement based concrete units were significantly lower, averaging 334.48 g m-2y-1 in temperate, and 168.68 g m-2y–1 in a tropical environments.
Obviously the amount of CaCO3 produced varies from one ecosystem to another, and depending on community structure. For example, Hily, Grall[17] calculated the CaCO3 production of various calcified species along the rocky shores of Brittany, France, and found that in sheltered sites Oyster CaCO3 production rates were 2390 g CaCO3 m-2 y-1. Values for coralline algae vary from 10 to 10,000g CaCO3 m-2y-1 in tropical areas[26], and remain lower in temperate waters (876g CaCO3 m-2 y-1)[27].

Photosynthesis performed in the marine environment mostly through macro and micro-algae, seagrasses and via symbiotic algae such as the ones residing in coral tissue, acts as a CO2 sink, through the formation of organic matter:

(1) 6H2O + 6CO2→ C6H12O6 + 6O2

Photosynthesis also removes CO2 from shallow ocean waters, and downward flux of the organic compounds generated through the process can effectively store CO2 in the deep ocean for hundreds of years[28].
According to Perkol-Finkel and Sella[3] ECOncrete’s bio-enhanced units had a significantly higher Chlorophyll a content compared control Portland cement based concrete units, which is indicative to enhanced primary production through photosynthesis. This was true for both temperate and tropical environments. Thus, ECOncrete has the potential to enhance photosynthesis compared to “gray” concrete, thus further reducing the structures’ carbon footprint by harnessing natural processes.

 

 

References

  1. Sharma, P., Coastal Zone Management. 2009: Global India Publications. 307 pp (Accessed March 2015) ISBN 978-81-907941-0-7. 307 pp (Accessed March 2015) ISBN 978-81-907941-0-7.
  2. Kampa E and Laaser C, Heavily Modified Water Bodies: “Information Exchange on Designation, Assessment of Ecological Potential, Objective Setting and Measures” – Updated Discussion Paper, in Common Implementation Strategy Workshop Brussels, 39 pp. 2009.
  3. Perkol-Finkel, S. and I. Sella. Ecologically Active Concrete for Coastal and Marine Infrastructure: Innovative Matrices and Designs. in From Sea to Shore–Meeting the Challenges of the Sea. 2014. Edinburgh, UK: ICE Publishing.
  4. Lukens, R.R. and C. Selberg., Guidelines for Marine Artificial Reef Materials, in A Joint Publication of the Gulf and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commissions. 2004.
  5. EBM, ENVIRONMENTAL BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE GUIDELINE FOR CONCRETING CONTRACTORS. 2004.
  6. McManus, R.S., et al., Partial replacement of cement for waste aggregates in concrete coastal and marine infrastructure: A foundation for ecological enhancement? Ecological Engineering, 2017.
  7. Dafforn, K.A., et al., Application of management tools to integrate ecological principles with the design of marine infrastructure. Journal of environmental management, 2015. 158: p. 61-73.
  8. Firth, L.B., et al., Between a rock and a hard place: Environmental and engineering considerations when designing coastal defence structures. Coastal Engineering, 2014. 87(0): p. 122-135.
  9. NSF, National Science Foundation. “How Solid Is Concrete’s Carbon Footprint?.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 24 May 2009. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090518121000.htm>. 2009.
  10. Marceau, M., M.A. Nisbet, and M.G. Van Geem, Life cycle inventory of portland cement manufacture. 2006, Portland Cement Association IL.
  11. Risinger, J.D., Biologically dominated engineered coastal breakwaters. 2012, California State University.
  12. Naylor, L.A., et al., Facilitating ecological enhancement of coastal infrastructure: The role of policy, people and planning. Environmental Science & Policy, 2012. 22: p. 36-46.
  13. NRMCA, Concrete CO2 Fact Sheet February 2012  2012.
  14. PCA. Portland Cement Association Green in Practice 107 – Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) https://www.concretethinker.com/technicalbrief/Supplementary-Cementitious-Materials.aspx.
  15. Yang, K.-H., et al., Effect of supplementary cementitious materials on reduction of CO 2 emissions from concrete. Journal of Cleaner Production, 2015. 103: p. 774-783.
  16. Siegenthaler, U. and J. Sarmiento, Atmospheric carbon dioxide and the ocean. Nature, 1993. 365(6442): p. 119-125.
  17. Hily, C., et al., CO2 generation by calcified invertebrates along rocky shores of Brittany, France. Marine and Freshwater Research, 2013. 64(2): p. 91-101.
  18. Frankignoulle, M., M. Pichon, and J.-P. Gattuso, Aquatic calcification as a source of carbon dioxide, in Carbon sequestration in the biosphere. 1995, Springer. p. 265-271.
  19. Zeebe, R.E. and D.A. Wolf-Gladrow, CO2 in seawater: equilibrium, kinetics, isotopes. 2001: Gulf Professional Publishing.
  20. Ware, J.R., S.V. Smith, and M.L. Reaka-Kudla, Coral reefs: sources or sinks of atmospheric CO 2? Coral reefs, 1992. 11(3): p. 127-130.
  21. White, M.M., et al., The concentration of calcium carbonate in shells of freshwater snails. American Malacological Bulletin, 2007. 22(1): p. 139-142.
  22. Dennis, H.D., et al., Reefcrete: Reducing the environmental footprint of concretes for eco-engineering marine structures. Ecological Engineering, 2017.
  23. Smith, S., Coral-reef area and the contributions of reefs to processes and resources of the world’s oceans. Nature, 1978. 273(5659): p. 225-226.
  24. Sella, I. and S. Perkol-Finkel, Blue is the new green–Ecological enhancement of concrete based coastal and marine infrastructure. Ecological Engineering, 2015. 84: p. 260-272.
  25. Jones, C.G., J.H. Lawton, and M. Shachak, Organisms as ecosystem engineers. Oikos, 1994. 69(3): p. 373-386.
  26. Payri, C.E., Production primaire et calcification des algues benthiques en milieu corallien. Oceanis, 2000. 26(3): p. 427-464.
  27. Potin, P., et al. Annual growth rate of the calcareous red alga Lithothamnion corallioides (Corallinales, Rhodophyta) in the Bay of Brest, France. in Thirteenth International Seaweed Symposium. 1990. Springer.
  28. Kleypas, J.A. and C. Langdon, Coral reefs and changing seawater carbonate chemistry. Coral reefs and climate change: science and management, 2006: p. 73-110.

Seawall- Can They Connect Humans and Nature?

Is there a person in the world that doesn’t like to sit on the beach, take a short break from the daily grind, and enjoy the beautiful ocean scenery?

Unfortunately, due to climate change, global sea levels are rising and our coastal cities are at risk. The most common response today is paving our shorelines with hard armor, especially, seawalls.

More and more seawalls are being built along coastlines all around the world, creating a barrier of protection from sea-level rise and extreme storminess. These are physical walls, made primarily of concrete or rock, that serve as barriers between the sea and people living on the coast. Most seawalls go unnoticed, these grey dull surfaces integrate with the urban landscape, as can be seen in the images from Vancouver, Canada, and even Hawaii, where you’d expect beautiful sandy beaches.

 

Vancouver’s Sea Wall. Credit: Clayton Perry Flickr

Seawalls – Our Front Lines of Defense

The rich history of seawall construction can be traced back thousands of years to the Eastern Roman Empire. The first seawalls are commonly attributed to the Roman Emperor Constantine I, also known as Constantine the Great, who ordered their construction in 448 A.D. The original marine barricades were built as part of a larger defense system designed to safeguard the city of Constantinople (present day Istanbul, Turkey) from attackers by land or sea. They were erected along the mainland wall and bordered the city’s Propontis side (on the Sea of Marmara) as well as Khrysoun Keras (on the gulf of the Golden Horn).

The construction of seawalls has been traced back thousands of years ago to Eastern Roman Empire. Historic seawalls made from Roman/Natural cement like in Caesarea are still holding. These structures have been proven to be so effective and strong that they can withstand decades of wear and tear from the evolution of human societies and extreme weather events.* After so many years they develop rough features and imperfections that allow for marine life to sustain. However, in recent times, modern seawalls are designed and built with little or no environmental considerations. The construction of seawalls comes at a grave cost to natural coastlines, creating a direct loss of natural coastal habitats, replacing them with unproductive, featureless, man-made structures. Studies show that seawalls typically support lower biodiversity and habitat quality, than natural shorelines, negatively impacting the ecosystem. In addition, current engineering requirements typically call for a 30 or 50 life span for the structure, leading to frequent maintenance/retrofitting, that inhibit the development of diverse and stable marine communities. Standard “grey” seawalls thus provide their engineered function, serving as massive concrete barriers, protecting against upland erosion and surge flooding. But using principles of ecological engineering, they can do so much more! Read on to the end of the blog to learn how.

Source: The Washington Post

I Don’t Live Next to The Sea…So Why Should I Care?

Due to the speedy increase in climate change side effects, coastal cities are disappearing! Beaches all around the world are being erased from maps and soon we won’t be able to enjoy their beauty and serenity.

Along with beautiful nature, our marine ecosystem services are in danger. The goods that humans take advantage of from the sea are immense and very important for human existence. With the heating, acidification, and rise of our global seas, we might no longer have access to things that we live off of like fish and marine sustenance, crude oil, hydropower, and waterway transportation.

Although losing our precious natural world and our important marine resources to climate change will be devastating, one of the saddest effects will be the immediate danger that island communities will be put in. Islanders from places like the Bahamas, Mauritius, Andaman Islands, etc… will be considered climate change refugees due to the complete deletion of their homes due to sea-level rise. That means losing generations of culture, history, language, and lives!

This is why the construction of seawalls is so important. Without their strength and protection, people, animals, and nature globally are at risk.

Famous Seawalls around the World:

Functional seawalls

In 1991 South Korea began construction on what became one of the world’s longest seawalls, reaching 33 kilometers (21 miles) that connects to major industrial cities and protects the low-lying farmland and freshwater estuary river bed ecosystem of the region.

In Havana, Cuba, a seawall was constructed between 1901 – 1952 to protect the city from the massive waves that reach the island from the North. Although it only looks like a giant wall of concrete, the Malecon used to be a popular hangout spot for young Cubans and it’s renovation in now in planning stages.

After a terrible tsunami in 2011, the Japanese beach city of Fudai adopted seawall implementation across all of their vulnerable ports and island alcoves. The city’s mayor, Mr. Wamura, saw the impact that small earthquakes and tsunamis had on the small fishing area and pushed the building of a 3.56-billion-yen seawall that would protect the city’s citizens. For years, the building was seen as unnecessary and a waste of tax payers money…until it stopped 66 feet waves and the local houses survived a massive tsunami unscathed.

Metamorphous – Canada – Functional with a side of aesthetics
Metamorphous, a seawall that’s also a piece of art: Paul Sangha Landscape Architecture

A New Chapter: Ecological Thinking in Seawalls

Still in Canada, the seawall of Vancouver’s convention center got upgraded to ecological habitat with a unique “habitat Skirt”. While not a structural element, this habitat addition created opportunities for mussels, algae and barnacles at the intertidal zone.

Courtesy of ECOncrete

Are you planning on visiting Seattle soon? Next time you visit there, search for Seattle’s downtown waterfront. You should check out the new seawall project. Not only that this seawall was built to last more than 75 years, but it also was developed to create enhanced fish native habitat.
The structure, completed in 2017, was designed with few elements in mind:
Light penetration surfaces; habitat benches to provide hiding places for fish; and texture of the structure to promote growth of fauna.

Apart from replacing the old city’s seawall that needed reconstruction and retrofitting, the main ecological goal of Seattle’s new seawall was to boost the region’s iconic Chinook Salmon, listed under the US Endangered Species Act. The biological monitoring of the Seattle seawall has started a few months ago and is still in progress. Initial results indicate that the new seawall is easing the Salmons passage.
“The UW team saw an estimated 10,000 juvenile salmon of various species on a single day of surveying last May and as many as 300 chinook on another day the same month.”  The Seattle Times

Juvenile chum salmon swim along the new Seattle seawall, designed with features to help them survive and migrate past… (Mike Caputo / University of Washington)

Environmentally Sensitive Seawalls that Bring Concrete to Life

Now imagine the next generation of seawalls, integrating ecological considerations into the material composition, design and construction process, mimicking coastal habitats, and harnessing natural processes that increase both the ecological value of the area and the structural performance of the structure. Such multifunctional bio-enhanced seawalls can provide all the necessary coastal protection, while also acting as attractive seascapes, linking coastal cities and their inhabitants to resilient, healthy, and beautiful marine ecosystems.

Here at ECOncrete we believe that we have created one of the world’s most innovative solutions for seawalls that work in synergy with the ocean’s natural systems. Our bio-enhanced seawalls not only improve coastal resilience and protect our coastal cities from sinking but also generate valuable underwater habitats, enhance growth of native marine plants and animals that make our oceans healthy and beautiful. On top of that, the marine growth helps protect the seawall and increase its strength and longevity through a process called Bioprotection.

Before and after image: 1-year post-deployment

For example, in 2014 ECOncrete, in collaboration with The Herzliya Municipal Tourism Development Corporation, deployed a first of its kind seawall, promoting marine life. Marina Herzliya is the largest and one of the most innovative Marinas in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. As the first marina in Israel to receive the world-renowned eco-label “Blue Flag”, Marina Herzliya put a considerable emphasis on sustainability and elevating ecosystem functionality. ECOncrete® has developed a science-based seawall element with high surface complexity, including holes and crevices for fish, crabs, and shrimps. It is built of high performance, marine grade, bio-enhancing concrete that provides suitable biological and environmental conditions for the development of a rich and diverse assemblage of marine flora and fauna.
Monitoring was performed with a comparison between the ECOncrete’s seawall units and standard Portland cement. 22 Months post-deployment ECOncrete’s seawall units were covered with a variety of invertebrates, while the control concrete seawall presented the low-diversity assemblage. Moreover, the majority of the dominant organism on ECOncrete’s units were structurally beneficial species that contribute to the structural stability and lifespan of the seawall units through bio-protection. The improved design of the seawall also has impacts like: lowering the ration between invasive and native species, water quality, lower ecological footprint and more. The bio-enhancement also provides socio-economic benefits: reduced maintenance costs, improved ecological stability and a higher ROI.

Marina Herzliya Case Study: https://p135776-100-25062.s100.upress.link/seawall-units-herzliya-marina/

Blue is the New Green: A message to decision-makers

The negative consequences of coastal development on marine life must be carefully considered by coastal managers and decision-makers when developing coastal shoreline protection schemes. Instead of merely asking developers to assess their negative impacts (typically termed EIS – Environmental Impact Statements), regulation should incentivize minimizing and offsetting negative impacts through implementation of innovative environmentally sensitive technologies. Bio-enhanced seawalls can protect our coastal cities, reduce erosion, and enhance the ecosystem and increase local biodiversity. Projects can benefit from expedited permitting and reduced environmental permitting, overall providing a win-win solution.