Research and Design of Artificial Reefs at Coral Bay

Paphos/Limassol – A series of critical field operations was successfully completed in the Coral Bay area of Cyprus, within the framework of the Eco-Beachtech project, laying the foundations for the innovative installation of artificial reefs.

The collaboration between the University of the Aegean (UA) and the Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence yielded significant data through the following actions:

• Reef Design: Detailed topographic, bathymetric, and morphological surveys were conducted. The goal was to update baseline data and hydrodynamic models in order to accurately determine the optimal location for the deployment of the environmentally friendly artificial reefs.
• High-Precision Mapping: The Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence proceeded with a detailed topographic survey of the adjacent coastal cliff, utilizing state-of-the-art technology: drone flights, RTK GNSS receivers, and a Terrestrial Laser Scanner.
• Wave Monitoring: A hydrodynamic experiment was executed, and a wave gauge belonging to the UA was installed, which will record wave behavior during the winter season.
• Partner Coordination: Alongside the measurements, a working meeting was held at the ERATOSTHENES offices, with the main subject being the maturation of the licensing procedures for the technical project.