Sperra, a designer and manufacturer of 3D printed structural systems for aquatic environments, is working with Voyacy Regen on a coral reef project.
Voyacy is Phillippe and Ashlan Cousteau’s new Bluetech company that aims to tackle the collapse of the natural ocean systems that protect us. Voyacy’s core technology combines 3D-printed reef structures, designed to absorb wave energy.
Located in Aqaba, Jordan, the project will employ Sperra’s 3D concrete manufacturing techniques and local materials to design, build, and deploy reef resiliency structures to propagate coral and repopulate coral reefs, which are rapidly disappearing throughout the Middle East and around the world.
Sperra’s development of coral reef resiliency structures support the work of Philippe Cousteau and the extensive research of David Vaughan, PhD., Chief Scientist for Voyacy Regen, who developed the technology to accelerate the growth of corals and restore coral reefs.
“This project represents the Royal Vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II, and Aqaba’s dedication to pioneering, science-based solutions that safeguard our thriving marine ecosystems, and enhance coastal resilience,” said Hussein Al-Safadi, CEO of Aqaba Development Corporation. “Through our partnership with Sperra and Voyacy, we are positioning Aqaba as a leader in marine conservation technologies that support ecological sustainability, resilient coastal infrastructure, and local community development.”
Coral reef protection and restoration
The Jordan project supports the sustainable use of oceans and sustainable workforce development in ocean regions.
The reality is, coral reefs are disappearing at alarming rates. The use of 3D printing has already been proven as a key technology to protect them or ensure their resilience.
Coral reef protection and restoration is also central to the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030) which seeks to galvanize efforts to restore degraded and destroyed ecosystems to enhance food security, clean the air, secure freshwater supplies, address the climate crisis and protect habitats that support life on Earth.
“We are thrilled to have Sperra onboard,” said Philippe Cousteau, Co-Founder of Voyacy Regen, and Aqaba Marine Park International Honorary Advisory Board Member. “Coastal communities are on the front lines of our rapidly changing world, and we couldn’t think of a more resolute and innovative partner to scale the tangible solutions we need.”
Coral reefs support about 25% of all marine species, even though they cover less than 1% of the ocean floor. Losing reefs means losing crucial habitats, further threatens shorelines, food security, and even medical discoveries.
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