The Port of Barcelona has initiated the installation of underwater structures on its docks and quays with the aim of fostering the presence of marine species. The first installed units, developed by the company Ocean Ecostructures, are designed to be placed on vertical surfaces and create habitats suitable for marine organism colonization.
This initiative is part of the RegenPorts program, driven by the Fundació BCN Port Innovation, and aims to deploy nearly a hundred units within the port premises. Project proponents believe this solution can be applicable to ports worldwide.
The structures, named Life Boosting Units (LBU), have been placed at various points within the port and represent the program's first large-scale deployment. According to those involved, these installations seek to facilitate biodiversity recovery in areas heavily modified by human activity, such as port docks and quays.
The program has also developed an operational protocol and a technical, scientific, and operational validation system to ensure these solutions can be deployed in active ports without interfering with logistical and commercial activities.
