The NEOM Nature Reserve in NEOM City, Saudi Arabia, has launched an innovative project to test coral resilience techniques as part of a broader conservation effort to protect and sustain the region’s marine ecosystems. In collaboration with Assystem-Radicon, NEOM is implementing solutions to safeguard coral biodiversity, ensuring its survival amid rising seawater temperatures and climate change.
One of the key technologies tested in this initiative is Spray Evaporative Cooling, a cutting-edge solution designed to mitigate the adverse effects of rising sea temperatures, particularly coral bleaching. Coral bleaching occurs when corals experience excessively warm waters, causing them to expel the algae that provide essential nutrients, leading to potential coral mortality.
This cooling system leverages the natural process of evaporative cooling by spraying seawater over the ocean surface. This technique simulates the natural cooling effect of wind and evaporation, lowering water temperatures and offering relief to coral reefs during the hottest periods of the year.
The pilot project is being conducted along an 80-meter controlled stretch of coastline in Gayal, Tabuk, NEOM. During the test phase, seawater is drawn directly from the ocean using pumps and sprayed over coral reefs using water cannons and specialist irrigation guns. Importantly, this method preserves the natural water chemistry, ensuring minimal environmental disruption while helping to mitigate heat stress on the corals during extreme temperature spikes.
WJ Saudi, in partnership with Assystem-Radicon, played a crucial role in the success of the project by providing expertise and specialized equipment for the installation and operation of the pumping and spraying system.
WJ Saudi sets itself apart from other contractors by offering comprehensive, in-house turnkey solutions. While many companies focus on individual aspects of a project, WJ Saudi manages everything from mobilization and installation to equipment testing, monitoring, and maintenance. This integrated approach ensures seamless coordination and efficient execution across all phases of the project.
WJ Saudi’s involvement in the NEOM coral conservation project reflects its strong commitment to environmental sustainability. This initiative highlights both the company’s technical expertise and its dedication to advancing marine conservation efforts. By supporting innovative solutions for coral protection, WJ Saudi contributes to preserving marine ecosystems, ensuring their resilience for future generations.
NEOM is not alone in its commitment to coral conservation. Other significant projects have been undertaken in the region, including the KAUST Coral Restoration Initiative (KCRI) at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. This initiative aims to develop the world’s largest coral restoration project, contributing to the global effort to protect these vital ecosystems.
This trial at NEOM is believed to be among the first of its kind in the Kingdom and could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. If successful, the approach could be expanded to help protect coral reefs worldwide, supporting broader marine biodiversity efforts.
Efforts to protect coral reefs are gaining momentum globally. In Australia, studies on the Great Barrier Reef have explored over 40 innovative concepts to mitigate the effects of global warming. According to a 2020 article in The Guardian, the Australian government has allocated $150 million for a two-year feasibility study on coral reef protection strategies. Further details on these initiatives can be found in the Great Barrier Reef Rescue project, with a video from Channel 4 available here.
According to the Climate Foundation, 30% of the world’s coral reefs have perished over the last 15 years due to rising sea temperatures and increased carbon dioxide levels, which contribute to ocean acidification. Previous trials in Hawaii and American Samoa have tested cooling methods such as pumping deep ocean water to shallow reef areas, showing promising improvements in coral color intensity and resilience. These findings advocate for marine permaculture as a strategy to prevent thermal stress and promote coral survival.
The NEOM Nature Reserve’s coral resilience project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to environmental conservation. By testing and refining cooling techniques, NEOM is taking proactive steps to help coral reefs withstand the impacts of climate change. This initiative not only aims to protect the coral ecosystems within NEOM but also serves as a blueprint for global marine conservation efforts.
This project underscores the importance of innovation in marine conservation and highlights NEOM’s role in pioneering solutions for a sustainable future.
WJ Saudi has completed similar groundwater management projects in the UK and globally. Click on the links below to learn more about what we do.
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