Integrated dredging solutions
Containment, Collection and Control of Invasive Algae
At Nautilus Dragados, we recognize the growing challenge posed by Asian algae on the Mediterranean coast and its impact on local marine ecosystems. Our mission is to offer environmentally friendly solutions for algae treatment, focusing on the containment of invasive algae and their subsequent sustainable recycling.
Technological solutions for an urgent environmental problem
In recent years, various areas of the Spanish coast have suffered a growing invasion of non-native exotic algae, such as Rugulopteryx okamurae, a species native to the Pacific that has found ideal conditions in the Mediterranean for its uncontrolled proliferation.
Areas such as Campo de Gibraltar, Tarifa, Marbella, Estepona, the Costa del Sol as a whole, and even parts of the Balearic Islands are already facing a large-scale environmental and tourism problem: the massive arrival of algae on beaches, affecting marine biodiversity, the tourism sector, and the local economy.
At Nautilus Dragados, we have innovative technologies and systems for containment and collection before it reaches the coasts and beaches.
Invasive Algal Bloom in the Mediterranean
The introduction of Asian algae to Spanish coasts has significantly altered the balance of our marine ecosystems. These invasive species compete with native species, affecting biodiversity and water quality. It is essential to implement effective strategies to control invasive algae and mitigate their environmental impact.
What is the impact of these algae?
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- Beach collapse: Tons of algae accumulated on the coast generate unpleasant odors, visual pollution, and limit recreational use of the beaches.
- Ecological damage: They displace native species, alter the seabed, and negatively affect fishing and other economic activities.
- High cleanup costs: Municipalities must allocate significant public resources for removal, often with inadequate machinery.
Algae Containment and Recycling
At Nautilus Dragados, we understand that the health of our aquatic ecosystems is essential for a sustainable future. Our algae containment and recycling service is presented as a comprehensive solution to address the growing problem of algae blooms on beaches and other marine environments. With specialized equipment and state-of-the-art technology, we guarantee a thorough cleaning of the sands, removing not only algae but also pollutants and debris that affect water quality and biodiversity.
We have developed a comprehensive approach to Asian algae management that includes:
Advanced Containment Systems
We use specialized barriers that prevent invasive algae from reaching beaches, facilitating their collection at sea.
Sustainable Algae Recycling
After harvesting, the algae are processed for reuse in various sectors*, promoting the circular economy with seaweed.
* For example, algae can be transformed into biomass for energy production or into organic fertilizers for agriculture.
Our solution: Direct intervention on the high seas + Coastal protection with barriers
1. Collection on the high seas with specialized vessels
At Nautilus Dragados, we tackle the problem at its source. We have vessels specifically designed to collect invasive algae in the open sea, before they reach beach areas.
These vessels were designed in collaboration with the Ocean University of China and one of the world’s largest manufacturers of cleaning vessels and are equipped with:
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- Floating collection systems.
- On-board drying and dehydration technology.
- Hermetically packaged for safe transport and storage.
This system allows us to work continuously and efficiently, minimizing the need for coastal interventions and preventing the degradation of the natural environment.
2. Containment with geotextile barriers
We install floating and/or submerged geotextile barriers that act as a first line of defense, retaining algae before they reach the coast.
Advantages:
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- Resistance to waves and the most demanding marine conditions.
- Easy maintenance and adaptability to coastal terrain.
- High effectiveness in busy tourist areas.
3. Extraction by amphibious dredgers with suction system
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- Remove large volumes of biomass without heavy machinery in the sand.
- Preserve the integrity of the coastal environment.
- Operate in sensitive or difficult-to-access areas.
Application in critical areas of the Spanish coast
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- Gibraltar and Tarifa: areas with a high concentration of Rugulopteryx okamurae, where our vessels can operate safely in the Strait’s currents.
- Marbella and Costa del Sol: Protecting tourist beaches with barriers and cleaning them without affecting tourism.
- Balearic Islands: Preventive intervention in areas of high biodiversity, with tailored solutions for protected marine environments.
A sustainable and scalable approach
Managing invasive algae cannot be limited to collecting them from the sand. At Nautilus Dragados, we propose a comprehensive, preventative, and sustainable model that combines maritime technology, dredging expertise, and environmental commitment.
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- Reduction of municipal costs in the medium term.
- Protection of beaches, marinas and natural environments.
- Possible valorization of algal biomass for agricultural or industrial uses.
Benefits of Our Approach
Our commitment to sustainability is evident in every project we undertake. Seaweed containment and recycling not only improves the aesthetics of our coastlines but also contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem. By removing seaweed and other debris, we create a healthier environment for marine flora and fauna, allowing ecosystems to flourish and remain in balance.
Positive Environmental Impact
By removing and recycling invasive algae, we improve the health of marine ecosystems and restore the natural beauty of beaches.
Innovation in Algae Recycling
We implement advanced techniques to ensure that the recycling process is efficient and environmentally friendly.
Sustainable Management
Our commitment to the sustainable management of Asian seaweed off the Spanish coast ensures that our practices benefit both the environment and local communities.
Do you need to protect your coast from invasive algae?
Contact us. We design customized solutions based on the geography and conditions of each municipality or coastal entity.
About us
Nautilus Dragados España, headquartered in Málaga, Spain, specializes in the dredging and cleanup of ports, beaches, and other aquatic environments. Originally founded in Norway, the company has accumulated extensive experience in cleanup and restoration projects there. We operate along the entire Mediterranean coast of Spain and part of the Atlantic, covering the entire coast of Spain and Portugal, as well as Morocco. Our commitment to sustainability and the environment is at the core of our mission. We utilize advanced technologies such as polymer/Geobag dewatering to ensure our operations are efficient and environmentally friendly. At Nautilus Dragados, we pride ourselves on providing innovative solutions to address marine environmental challenges.
Contact us today!
If you’re looking for beach algae containment and recycling services or would like to learn more about our eco-friendly alternatives for algae treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is ready to offer solutions tailored to your specific needs.