AD Ports Group (AD Ports), CMA CGM Group, and Ecocean, a company serving aquatic biodiversity, have inked a scientific collaboration framework to install 48 Biohuts at Khalifa Port.
The Biohut module is a submerged structure designed to restore biodiversity and encourage marine life in coastal and harbour environments. The modules are intended to provide a safe haven and breeding ground for a wide range of marine species critical to the health of coastal ecosystems.
Biohut modules come in the form of modular cages, made from eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, offering a solid, protective structure for marine wildlife while minimising its impact on the environment. These structures will be placed in selected regions of Khalifa Port where marine life requires protection and regeneration.
According to AD Ports, the Biohuts will be placed during Q1 2024, at the CMA CGM’s new terminal, which is currently being built. This pilot phase will span five years and include a monitoring component.
The Group believes that by combining responsible management practices, marine conservation, and environmental innovation, marine biodiversity and the ocean’s delicate ecosystems can be preserved.
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Félix de Carpentier, Group Vice President – Sustainability, CMA CGM, stated: “Preserving biodiversity is part of CMA CGM ‘Acting for Planet’ pillar, at the heart of the Group’s sustainability commitments. We have been working for years with experts to better understand the mechanisms of its preservation and support protection and restoration projects which contribute to reducing human activities environmental footprint.
“Given the scale of the challenge, we strongly believe that ‘getting on board’ with our partners will speed up our action, and we’re delighted with this first example of collaboration with Ecocean in Abu Dhabi, which we hope to replicate in other countries.”
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Ahmad Al Khayat, Acting Senior Vice President – Innovation, AD Ports Group, said: “We are delighted to launch this project with CMA and CGM and Ecocean. As a Group, we recognise that through thoughtful, innovative initiatives, we can actively and significantly boost biodiversity.
“Healthy ecosystems rich in biodiversity not only benefit human health, but also positively impact the economy. By installing biohuts at Khalifa Port, we aim to mitigate the environmental effects of construction. This reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and our focus on innovation to foster environments where natural flora and fauna can prosper.”
