News
Ecological project in Grevelingen.
An important benefit to the Mecal Nodes is that they promote a biodiverse ecosystem. As one of our validation projects, we decided to place some of our Nodes underwater in Grevelingen, Zeeland for an extensive period and monitor how the ecosystem is performing over time.
The extensive research, engineering expertise, and close collaboration with professional ecologists are truly paying off. In our latest ecological tests, the Mecal Nodes are demonstrating exactly what they were designed to achieve: providing a stable, supportive foundation on which a thriving ecosystem can develop. Their calcareous material and carefully engineered geometry create natural opportunities for marine life to settle, grow, and expand, showing clear signs that the design principles behind the Nodes translate into real ecological value.
From nothing to nature-rich
The Nodes were placed underwater only four months ago, and were not loaded with any plant composites. We also placed a standard armour-layer rock in this set-up, so we can compare how the Nodes perform to what is currently used in the industry for scour protection. Through regular monitoring sessions, we aim to learn even more about the ecological benefits of the Mecal Nodes.
After the first monitoring session, we are happy to report extremely positive results! Various crustaceans have already found the Nodes, and as can be seen in the images below, the Nodes also provide an excellent base for marine plant growth.
The Nodes after four months in the Grevelingen, Zeeland.
Not only are we happy to see the amount of plant growth and animals on and surrounding the Nodes, we also are happy to spot various species; as a biodiverse ecosystem is a healthy ecosystem!
These early results are encouraging and reinforce our belief that well-designed, nature-inclusive technology can make a meaningful contribution to underwater habitats. As ongoing monitoring continues to reveal new growth and colonization, we’re gaining even more confidence in the Nodes as a reliable, effective tool for building healthier marine ecosystems.