Artificial reefs via offshore wind farms

Globally, the UK generates the most offshore wind energy and the number of windfarms is only set to rise with the shift to renewables. We want to make the most of our world-leading status by utilising this opportunity to restore degraded ocean habitats.

Offshore windfarms submersed in waters around the UK introduce a new habitat for marine life to attach to. A submersed sanctuary free from trawling. Species such as blue mussels colonise the hard substrate and attract bigger predators creating a ‘reef effect’.

We understand the initial toll windfarms can cause. However, since the drive behind them is to produce greener energy, we see their development as an opportunity. Firstly to create a cohesive network of artificial reefs, secondly to give back to the local economy.

Artificial reefs create networks by connecting biological hotspots. This introduces potential for new life and increased ocean productivity. Additionally, safe zones provide local fish stocks an area to recover. This can both help fishermen in the long run and provide aquaculture opportunities by harvesting mollusks.

Reef trust will work in collaboration with local fishermen and research scientists to sustainably restore habitats, increase local and regional biological productivity and collect scientific data to help support more marine life.

Other Projects

Engaging local communities

Empower

Bridging the gap between the ocean and mankind The ocean is a powerful tool to improve our health and connect to nature. We aim to bridge the gap between people, the sea and our future. Encouraging individual involvement and engagement of local communities. Exploring and restoring beaches, reefs and marine life. Let’s inspire a positive…

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Working with ocean ambassadors

Support

Creating partnerships with individuals, companies and organisations. Reef trust care about both the environment and the people who surround it. That’s why our projects will be grounded in scientific evidence and local knowledge to ensure maximum benefit to the reefs and communities. We think it is important to work closely with our partners to share information,…

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Information on ocean health

Educate

Inspiring the next generation of environmental pioneers to be future voices of our seas Reef trust will interact with the general public, individuals, nurseries, schools, colleges and universities. It is important to educate and inspire curious minds as well as provide opportunities to develop research and field skills. We want to build a team of…

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Restore kelp beds UK

Restore Kelp

Kelp arises from the rocky sea floor and grows up towards sunlight to form a canopy of dense macro-algae. Beyond the fronds, you can find cuttlefish, seahorses, crabs, lobsters sea-bream and bass. These habitats offer a safe nursery ground and home for native species to reside in and protect our coasts from erosion and storm…

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Establishing protected areas

Protect

We want to expand the UK’s blue belt. Protecting the underwater world is essential for the health of our ocean, planet and species. The best method to protect our seas is to halt ocean degradation before it happens. This can be done by creating marine protected areas (MPA’s) around threatened habitats. Effective management in these areas…

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