UNITED

The UNITED project wants to promote the multiple use of oceans by developing demonstration projects. In doing so, many technical, regulatory, economic, social and environmental requirements and effects are thoroughly examined.

A pilot project has been established in Belgium on the cultivation of European flat oysters (O. edulis) and sugar kelp (S. latissima) in the Belwind offshore wind farm. It uses suspended cultivation systems which are adapted to the rough sea and commercially applicable. The installation is currently being tested in the Westdiep zone.

The project also investigates whether the erosion protection layer of wind turbines can serve as a reef for young oysters. This allows aquaculture to supply oysters in the short term to support restoration efforts, and developed oyster reefs can eventually supply oyster larvae to provide local seed oysters to the industry.

The restoration of European flat oyster reefs is not only a Belgian, but also a European challenge. Seaweed, on the other hand, is grown both offshore and nearshore (Westdiep) to compare nutritional and growth characteristics, sowing techniques and origins of plant material.

The integration of energy and food productions, as well as restoration as envisioned in the Belgian pilot project is a great example of multiple use of space, infrastructure and manpower at sea.