Blue Tech, the application of technologies to the sustainable use and exploration of marine resources, is fundamentally transforming how we understand and interact with the Ocean. The contributions in this volume of SeaVoice highlight the diversity and potential of these technologies, with articles covering deep sea exploration, marine conservation and restoration, the sustainable use of marine resources, and how technologies can empower coastal communities.
‘Sharing the Deep Sea’ delves into the revolutionary technologies so often associated with blue technology —ROVs, AUVs, HOVs, and benthic landers—that have allowed us to explore the ocean's hidden realms. These advancements reveal ecosystems teeming with life, such as hydrothermal vents and cold-water coral reefs, which were previously beyond our reach. However, as this technology pushes the boundaries of marine exploration, it also pulls the environmental impacts of human activities on the ocean into sharp focus. Following this theme, ‘Robots, Restoration and How to Save the World!’ demonstrates how AUVs can be deployed to restore ocean ecosystems and help address global carbon emissions in the process.
Erick Asencio’s personal narrative in ‘My Journey in Navigating the Future of Sustainable Fishing in the Galápagos’, the account of ARRI's efforts in ‘Drones in the Fight Against Ghost Gear’, and Brian Palmer's 'Crumbling Walls', reveal how technology can bolster sustainable fishing practices, combat the scourge of ghost gear, and blend scientific and traditional knowledge. These initiatives demonstrate how technological innovation can harmonise with different types of knowledge to protect marine biodiversity and sustain local economies, and how Blue Tech can be understood in a myriad of ways.
In my own field, marine archaeology, technology over the past couple of decades has not only revolutionised the ways in which we can not only accurately record submerged sites but also how we can present these sites to the non-diving public. Two papers, ‘Capturing Sunken History’ and ‘Underwater 3D Modelling from Wrecks to Reefs’ showcase how underwater photogrammetry and 3D modelling not only us to accurately monitor and present underwater cultural heritage to wider audiences but are also making major contributions to marine conservation initiatives. Raising awareness is an important part of our work as people only tend to care about what they can see and experience.
Peter Holt's ‘1000 Tyres’ presents a stark reminder of human-induced degradation, detailing the historical and ongoing pollution in Plymouth Sound. The restoration of seagrass beds and oyster habitats is a testament to the resilience of marine ecosystems when aided by technology and community efforts. The paper also describes the pervasive threat of plastic pollution, which not only endangers marine life but also threatens submerged archaeological sites.
In ‘Ocean-Impact Tech for Adaptation & Inclusivity in African Coastal Communities’ we hear how scalable, low-tech solutions technologies can empower local communities, fostering economic growth and environmental stewardship. Similarly, ‘Navigating the Tides: Small-Holder Farmers Charting the Future of Seaweed Farming’ emphasizes the transformative potential of small-scale, tech-enabled seaweed farming to enhance global food security and ecological health.
Finally, Rhianna Rees’ ‘Seaweed is Sexy: The Untapped Treasure of Our Seas’ encapsulates the optimism of the blue economy. As we embark on meeting the aims of the UN Ocean Decade, Rees calls for harnessing the potential of seaweed and other marine resources through sustainable practices and cutting-edge technologies to build a resilient future.
As Blue Tech initiatives continue to evolve, the dual potential of marine technology—to heal or to harm—remains ever-present. By embracing innovation with an ethical and reflective approach, Blue Tech can help us steer toward a future where our oceans flourish, benefiting both humanity and the planet.
Jon Henderson
Commissioning Editor, SeaVoice