Helping the EA and wider industries meet biodiversity mandates
Our Intertidal Reef cubes undergo 5-year study to assess increased biodiversity
Challenge
The need for our technology is paramount due to a new approach set out in the Environment Act 2021:mandatory enhanced biodiversity . This policy was expected to come into effect in November 2023, just after the project, and stated planning permissions granted in England will have to deliver at least 10% BNG up until the low intertidal mark. This would apply to all new developments and infrastructure works, including coastal defences.
Solution
Commissioned by the Environment Agency (EA) and installed by Kier, our Intertidal Reef cubes were subjected to a 5-year study assessing increased biodiversity values compared to typical rock armour and other pre-cast structures. Weighing in at around 5.5 metric tonnes, these units are ideal for defending coastal assets, whilst enhancing biodiversity and minimising environmental impact by using our Marine Crete (a cementitious material with a 91% reduction in CO2 emissions). This combination helps stakeholders meet their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.
Client feedback
"ARC marine were a great help - they were easy to contact and available to offer invaluable insight and advice throughout the process"
"We found the cubes easy to transport and install, with transportation from compound to the intertidal installation a simple process that was accomplished with a tracked dumper and excavator."
"ARC marine are providing 25% of the eco blocks for the Newlyn project. Their blocks offer multi-functional benefits, such as biodiversity enhancing design and low-carbon fabrication. The development of viable alternatives to carbon intensive and non-sustainable solutions such as reinforced concrete, or quarried rock, is hugely important"
Published Papers & Resources
Full links and related documents can be found in our resources area.
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