SharkSafe Barrier

PITCHFEST 2020 Finalist

Website: www.sharksafesolution.com 

Headquarters: Stellenbosch, South Africa

Year Commenced: 2014

Ocean Theme: Ocean Health

SharkSafe Barrier’s mission is to provide the tools for an environmentally friendly coexistence between sharks and humans that will resolve the shark-human conflict problem. SharkSafe Barrier provides a novel and sustainable solution to shark and human protection through effective, shark-specific and nature inspired technology. Using a patented technology that incorporates a magnetic field with a kelp-forest mimicking structure, sharks are deterred without affecting other ocean fauna.

 
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Mission: To provide the tools for an environmentally friendly coexistence between sharks and humans, that will resolve the shark-human conflict.

Solution: Research has indicated that large sharks avoid entering thick kelp forests.The SharkSafe Barrier™ comprises an array of multiple vertical tubes (SSB Units) that bio-mimic a thick forest of kelp. The large, permanent ceramic magnets embedded in the external row of SSB Units create an effective magnetic field, which has also been proven to deter shark species. The SSB Units are manufactured from recycled HDPE, they are vertically buoyant, anchored to the sea-floor and extend one meter above the surface at high tide. Only sharks are affected by the presence of the barrier, while other marine animals such as fish or seals can safely swim through it, without the risk of entanglement.The robustness and minimal maintenance costs of the SharkSafe Barrier makes it the ideal long term solution for promoting ocean activities and increasing local tourism. 

How does the ocean inspire you? “I am a marine biologist, so I guess I could argue that the Ocean has been my life inspiration. I pursued a job that would allow me to be in contact and into the Ocean, with the specific aim of doing something positive for her in return. The opportunity to follow my childhood dream of being a marine scientist working for the Ocean was the reason to move from Italy to South Africa back in 2009. Everything about the Ocean inspires me. Her complexity, her ability to quickly switch from calm to unleashing powerful waves and the rich biodiversity thriving beneath these. Also the humbling reminder of the Ocean’s vital role in our daily survival on this Blue Planet, and how strictly connected humanity is to her well-being.” - Sara Andreotti, COO.

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