The rrreefs, a Switzerland-based organization, collaborated with the Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation (CCEF) to hold a Comprehensive Workshop on Artificial Coral Reef Installation Using 3D–Printed Modular Clay Reefs in Maria, Siquijor, from July 25 to August 10, 2024.
The workshop was attended by CCEF Marine Biologists, Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) Marine Researchers, and representatives from the LGU – Maria Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO), Asia Blue, and Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). The aim was to provide participants with practical skills in sustainable artificial reef construction techniques to help enhance marine biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
To create customizable, durable, eco-friendly modular coral reef structures, 3D printing technology was used. The workshop began with site–scoping assessments, during which the participants conducted manta tow surveys and drone shot mapping to identify the most suitable location for the 3D modular clay reefs installation. As part of the site preparation, markers were placed by the participants to demarcate the selected project area. Also, a control site was chosen for monitoring purposes. Baseline assessments were carried out on both the project and control sites by the participants.
In addition, an underwater activity was conducted to transfer coral recruits and rubble, and a brief discussion on how Nauplius was designed to support the structure of the artificial reefs was held. Participants engaged in Nauplius underwater unloading and building platform activities. Duckbill anchors, Posidonia, and Neptune balls were installed and retrieved from the underwater the following day. The participants practiced techniques for securing the artificial reef structures.
Moreover, a reef-building workshop was conducted, which included discussions on the Standard Operation Process (SOP) and the installation of bricks. More practice sessions for building artificial coral reefs (ACRs) were held to refine techniques and improve the construction process of the artificial reef structures. Participants assembled the components multiple times to hone their skills and ensure optimal effectiveness and stability for deployment in the water.
