The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Artificial Reef Program has released a video (below) showing the sinking of a 371-ft cargo vessel, named The Kraken, to create a new artificial reef. Sinkings like this are common, but it raises a question – should carriers be doing more to aid in creating these environments?
Maersk Line announced plans towards the end of 2016 to scrap eight panamax ships at yards in China and India. The Danish container shipping company has been criticised throughout 2016 over its shipbreaking methods, specifically its return to beaching facilities in Alang, India where the company is intending to send more and more ships in the near future.
Carriers and other organisations that operate huge fleets of vessels could benefit from creating artificial reefs. It may be an excellent way to mend relationships with those concerned about its environmental impacts.
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Dubbed the Kraken after the mythical, squid-like sea monster immortalized on film and in literature, the vessel was sunk 67 miles off the coast of Galveston.
Artificial reefs attract fish, coral and other invertebrates as well as divers and anglers. The Kraken’s proximity to the Flower Gardens Marine Sanctuary also makes it a premiere dive location in the Gulf of Mexico.
