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.
2024: Nodes placement
The Nodes were placed underwater only two years 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.
2025: First monitoring session
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, the Nodes also provide an excellent base for marine plant growth.
The Nodes were placed underwater only two years 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.
2026: Second monitoring session
The second monitoring session happened recently, and once again we were very happy with the results. The organisms that had attached themselves to the Nodes in 2025 have blossomed further, and are now full of color and even larger then last year. Wildlife can also still be found around te Nodes. The Nodes underneath all of the attached organisms are still fully in tact, demonstrating the stability and longevity of the Nodes.
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.