A cutting-edge solution to detect and monitor marine litter, including both macro and microplastics
Related REMEDIES Pillars: Detection and Monitoring
Partner(s)/Owner(s): Clera.One, in collaboration with Mohammed Premier University, Infordata Sistemi, and the National Research Council
Made for: Local and regional authorities, research organizations, NGOs, environmental advocacy groups, industry partners, and educational institutions
What is the Underwater Drone Technology?
The Underwater Drone Technology represents a cutting-edge solution to detect and monitor marine litter, including both macro and microplastics. Equipped with advanced AI algorithms and specialized sampling filters, the drones provide data to support effective waste monitoring and management. By addressing both macro and microplastic pollution, this technology delivers a holistic approach for combating marine litter.
Developed by Clera.One, a REMEDIES program partner, the technology is designed to advance from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 to TRL 8 by the end of the program in 2026. This progression ensures that the solution is fully operational, tested, and ready for large-scale implementation in real-world environments.
Impact: What Challenges Does This Technology Address?
Marine litter, particularly plastic waste, poses significant challenges to ocean health and biodiversity. The underwater drone technology tackles two key issues:
- Detection of Marine Litter: By using our own AI algorithms we can identify and classify macro and microplastics from samples and photos taken by the drones. This capability enables targeted clean-up efforts of seafloor macrolitter on specific locations.
- Continuous Monitoring: The technology supports consistent data collection for long-term assessment of marine litter trends. This data informs policy decisions, resource allocation, and environmental protection initiatives.
This solution has been tested at REMEDIES Koper Demo Site in Slovenia and is tailored to meet the unique challenges of coastal and marine environments. It aligns with the pillars of the REMEDIES program — Detection and Monitoring.
Unique Value Proposition: What Makes This Technology Stand Out?
The underwater drone technology combines innovative features and technical specifications to deliver a comprehensive and efficient solution:
- Comprehensive Detection: The use of AI algorithms for macro and microplastic detection ensures the identification of marine litter pollution.
- Repeatable Sampling: Equipped with filters of varying pore sizes, the drones enable comparable microplastic sampling, improving data reliability across different locations.
- Technical Specifications:
- Use of two FIFISH V6 EXPERT underwater drones equipped with specialized detection and monitoring technologies.
- Development of AI algorithms for accurate seafloor litter detection.
- Integration of standardized filters to ensure data consistency.
- Holistic Approach: By addressing both macro and microplastic pollution, the technology provides a comprehensive solution for marine litter monitoring and prevention.
- Scalability: The drones’ modular design and advanced capabilities ensure adaptability for diverse environments and stakeholders.
User: Who Can Benefit from This Technology?
The underwater drone technology caters to a diverse range of stakeholders committed to reducing marine litter and promoting ocean health. Local and regional authorities can utilize this technology to monitor and manage marine litter effectively in coastal regions. Research organizations benefit by gaining precise data to enhance studies on marine ecosystems and pollution trends. NGOs and environmental advocacy groups can amplify their campaigns with accurate insights into litter hotspots. Industry partners can identify areas for waste reduction and sustainability improvements, while educational institutions can incorporate this technology into training and awareness programs to cultivate environmental stewardship among students and communities. By addressing the needs of these varied users, the technology fosters impactful, targeted actions toward sustainability and cleaner oceans.
Exploitation Pathway: How Will This Technology Be Put Into Action?
The underwater drone technology’s exploitation pathway includes strategic partnerships and commercialization efforts to maximize its impact:
- Collaborative Research Projects: Joint R&D initiatives with stakeholders to further enhance the technology’s capabilities and adapt it to specific needs.
- Commercialization: Offering the solution as a product and software subscription to local authorities, research institutions, and environmental organizations.
- Capacity Building: Training programs and workshops for stakeholders to ensure effective deployment and operation of the technology.
- Scalable Implementation: Expanding its use to additional regions and applications, supported by ongoing advancements in AI and monitoring capabilities.
Through these pathways, the underwater drone technology aims to improve marine litter detection and monitoring, contributing to a cleaner, healthier ocean ecosystem.
Discover More
Learn more about Clera.One, a REMEDIES program partner, here.
Stay tuned!
Explore the Marketplace Page for the Underwater Drone Technology – available soon!
Watch the Technology Presentation of YouTube – available soon!
