[Coral-List] Coral restoration

[Medio, David]

I am involved in a wide range of medium to very large coastal developments some of which a priori are known to damage long established reefs in the Gulf. Whereas some of the recent artificial reef applications may well have had positive results, I am as rule very sceptical on the use of and proliferaion as well as the political clout afforded artificial reef initiatives. 

Firstly, can we really recreate a reef (as opposed to relocating existing bits of a reef) in its complexity, function and extent?

Secondly, using man made reefs, if pushed to the limit, as is the case in many coastal and offshore developments in the Gulf, will amount frequently to giving a green light to using such as a tool to offset large levels of multi-layered damage to the marine environment, i.e. more than just the coral habitats.

Reefs in the Gulf are increasingly being described as far more extensive and pristine and species rich than previuosly thought whilst at the same coming under the greatest level of pressure ever experienced in the region.

The answer for their conservation is cleverly designed engineering, robust and well implemented mitigation measures and environmental management plans, improved environmental educational and awareness and improved regulatory frameworks.


Dr David Medio
Principal Environmental Scientist
Halcrow Group Ltd, Arndale Centre, Otley Rd, Headingley, Leeds, LS6 2UL, UK
tel: switchboard +44 (0)113 2208220, direct line: +44 (0)113 220 8253, mobile: +44 (0)773 919 0968
fax: +44 (0)113 274 2924   email: mediod at halcrow.com             www.halcrow.com
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