Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Energy Consumption of Coastal Ecosystem Enhancement Programme through Sustainable Artificial Reefs in Galicia

Abstract

The principle of sustainability should condition a project in which artificial reefs are being installed to protect biodiversity as well as enhance costal ecosystems. In particular, this principle should be taken into account in the logistical processes related to manufacture and transport. This study assesses the global warming potential (GWP) and cumulative energy demand (CED) of developing a coastal ecosystem enhancement programme in the estuary region of Galicia, north-western Spain. The focus is on the processes involved in creating green artificial reefs (GARs): manufacture, transport and installation. The starting point is the supply chain for the green artificial reef (GAR) units; greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and energy needs for each phase are analysed. Various scenarios are considered to determine which options are indeed available when it comes to establishing the supply chain. Different types of energy supplies, different options for the location of production centres, as well as different means of transport were studied. Results reveal the critical phases for selecting how the GAR units must be produced, transported by road and sea and then installed in their permanent location.

Installing green artificial reefs: a sustainable challenge

“…In addition, the special service workboat has a self-propulsion system, on-deck storage and an auxiliary crane. It is shortest than the previous one, with 24 m and its draft is 2.3 m [1].…”

“…The AR considered in this study is a GAR (Green Artificial Reef) [1], where the traditional materials (cement, sand, gravel and frames) were replaced in a percentage by waste (oyster and mussel shells and eucalyptus vegetable fibers). It has been defined in the PROARR research project (Recycled Artificial Reef Project).…”

“…Artificial reefs (AR) offer a refuge for different marine species [1,2]. It allows that marine animals can develop their reproduction, increasing the biodiversity of a particular sea location.…”

“…The diverse cargo techniques affect the number of green artificial reef units that can be stowed. The bulk carrier has cargo holds enhanced by its relatively high draft (5.45 m) [1]. It has a long of 81 m [1].…”

“…The bulk carrier has cargo holds enhanced by its relatively high draft (5.45 m) [1]. It has a long of 81 m [1]. In addition, the special service workboat has a self-propulsion system, on-deck storage and an auxiliary crane.…”