The Future of Artificial Reefs: How One Dutch Startup is Redefining Sustainability

The gray waters off the port of Rotterdam are now home to a unique seawall made of Lego-like blocks that double as an artificial oyster reef. These blocks have been developed by Dutch startup Reefy to help safeguard marine life populations and prevent offshore erosion of the seabed caused by waves and storms. While natural coral reefs can absorb up to 97% of storm surge energy, artificial reefs made of cheap materials such as old cars or solid concrete are not as flexible or beneficial for the environment. They do not make room for nature and often fail to disperse the energy of incoming waves. Reefy's blocks address these limitations by making holes that allow waves to expend their energy going through the blocks rather than bouncing off them. The holes also create space for animals to pass through or make their home inside. The low-carbon concrete outside of the blocks is textured to encourage the growth of mussels and oysters, while a "Reefy Paint" of calcium carbonate is being developed as a supplement for bivalves. Reefy's Lego-like blocks are customizable and can be interconnected into any shape, making them ideal for climate-proof coastal infrastructure. The company's proprietary technology analyzes the force and angle of waves to determine the optimal pattern for reducing wave energy. This innovation marks a significant step forward in creating long-lasting artificial solutions that enhance biodiversity and protect the marine ecosystem. Other parts of the world, such as Israel, are also exploring 3D printing of artificial ceramic reefs as a way to replace natural reefs lost to climate change. The Lego-like seawall in Rotterdam is a prime example of how technology and innovation can work hand in hand with nature to create sustainable solutions for the challenges we face.