MULI
Informed by the Ocean - Academic Project, Royal College of Art
In Collaboration with Jasper Mallinson, Yang Ling, Xue Xia, Linli Zhu
How can oysters help clean out Eutrophication?
Watch this video to learn more about this project >
WHAT
Introducing the MULI – an innovative solution for fostering sustainable oyster ecosystems and clearing out eutrophication from water bodies.
Context: Over the past three decades, one of the most significant threats to coastal marine health has been accelerated eutrophication. This occurs due to nutrient enrichment, particularly from phosphorus and nitrogen, leading to harmful algal blooms (HABs).
Key facts:
300 reported incidents of toxic algae blooms globally in 2020.
A 130% rise in incidents by early 2021.
40% of the world's water bodies are negatively impacted by harmful algae blooms.
Negative Impacts:
Production of toxins.
Deterioration of water quality.
Oxygen depletion, choking underwater ecosystems.
Ocean acidification affects marine biodiversity.
Damage to economies, fisheries, and human health.
HOW
Through MULI:
Oyster Drone Ship: Moves oyster trays to optimal feeding grounds.
Integrated Sensors: Measures oxygen, nitrogen, algae toxicity, temperature, and water quality.
Research Capability: Collects data on HAB dynamics for long-term solutions.
Renewable Energy: Powered by solar panels, attached to buoys for extended operation.
Ecosystem Regeneration: Supports fisheries, enhances biodiversity, and strengthens economies.
Through this approach, we aim to:
Save fisheries and local livelihoods.
Drive sustainable aquaculture.
Advance oyster farming to combat HABs and restore marine health.
WHY
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) have severe environmental and economic consequences, driven by:
Seasonal nutrient loading.
Warm water and excess nutrients facilitating algal growth.
Economic Costs:
Fisheries closures.
Tourism losses.
Increased costs for water quality monitoring.
Ecosystem Solutions: Oysters, as natural filter feeders, offer a sustainable way to:
Remove nitrogen pollution.
Restore ecological balance.
Filter up to 50 gallons of water daily.
However, there are significant data gaps in understanding coastal nutrient levels and the full potential of oyster-based remediation.
Through this approach, we aim to:
Save fisheries and local livelihoods.
Drive sustainable aquaculture.
Advance oyster farming to combat HABs and restore marine health.
