South African Designed SharkSafe Barriers Redefine Ocean Safety Worldwide.
- deborahholden
- Dec 12, 2023
- 2 min read
In a heartening development for ocean enthusiasts and the nation alike, shark barriers designed in South Africa are gaining global recognition. Crafted by marine biologists at the University of Stellenbosch and produced in the Western Cape, these barriers are now being utilised in the Bahamas.
Spearheaded by Dr. Sara Andreotti, the director and chief operations officer of the SharkSafe Barrier, these barriers are being lauded as a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional shark nets. Unlike shark nets, which tragically contribute to the deaths of thousands of sharks and other marine creatures annually, the SharkSafe Barrier offers a promising solution.
The SharkSafe Barrier represents a groundbreaking eco-friendly solution designed to protect both people and sharks. It utilises a combination of large marine seaweeds for visual deterrence and magnetic impulses for a physiological barrier, proven to discourage shark passage. The technology results from extensive scientific research and development led by experts in shark behavior and marine engineering, offering a unique and modular design adaptable to various installation sites. Notably, the innovative approach not only effectively manages shark movements but also minimises potential harm to other marine animals, contributing to the overall health of the natural environment.
The development of the SharkSafe Barrier commenced in 2012 in South Africa and has withstood the challenges posed by Great White Sharks and rugged seas in the region; it's deemed suitable for deployment worldwide. The technology has been officially patented through Stellenbosch University’s innovation hub, Innovus, with additional tests conducted in the Bahamas and Reunion Island.
Following its successful implementation in the Bahamas, the SharkSafe Barrier is slated for deployment in Bitou (Plettenberg Bay), a popular tourist destination that experienced two shark-related fatalities within three months last year.
Notably, these barriers, measuring 30 meters in length, boast a remarkable durability of 20 years in the water, requiring minimal maintenance. Furthermore, marine life can thrive on them, forming an artificial reef—a dual benefit that enhances ocean safety and fosters a positive environment for sea creatures.
The South African-designed shark barriers represent a groundbreaking solution that not only enhances ocean safety for humans but also champions the crucial protection of marine life, particularly sharks, through innovative and sustainable measures.
This was a fascinating read! The innovation behind these South African shark barriers is truly impressive, and you presented it in a very engaging way. I recently saw a related discussion on https://trgsupply.com/ that also highlighted creative approaches to safety, and it echoed some of the insights here. Great work!
Shark Barriers Redefine Ocean https://www.grcars.ca/ Safety Worldwide Wow, this is impressive and hopeful: a humane, eco-friendly way to keep beaches safe while protecting sharks. A win for people and nature grcars is happy to see innovations like this.
Fascinating read! The innovative approach to ocean safety is impressive, and you explained it so clearly. I recently saw a similar insight on an environmental blog https://www.poppyseeddreams.com/ which also explored creative solutions for marine conservation. Truly an eye-opening post!
A fascinating and well-explained look at new ocean-safety innovations — it’s encouraging to see environmentally conscious engineering gaining momentum. I came across a conversation on a review blog https://trentonjonesmd.com/ that touched on balancing safety with conservation, and this post really shows how that balance can be achieved. Exciting progress for marine protection.
RevitalizeMD https://www.revitalyzemd.com supports initiatives that protect both humans and nature, emphasizing innovation and responsibility in creating safer environments worldwide.