Fabrication and Deployment of Artificial Reef

Artificial reefs are man-made structures made from concrete materials and deployed on the seabed to enhance marine resources and enrich coastal biodiversity. In collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Forest, UNDP, GEF SGP OP5 & OP7, Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS) through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Australia Consulate General, Chennai, CMFRI, Tamilnadu State Fisheries, Chennai Water Desalination Limited, PLANT fabricated and deployed more than 5,400 artificial reefs since 2007 in Tamilnadu Coast.

The project, implemented with the PLANT NGO, aimed to improve marine fisheries resources and enrich coastal biodiversity in Tamilnadu coasts. With the above mentioned donors' generous support, PLANT successfully completed the fabrication and deployment of artificial reefs across 27 fishing villages across Tamilnadu.

This initiative demonstrated how local partnerships and grassroots innovation can impact global challenges such as marine resource depletion and biodiversity loss. By harnessing community engagement and corporate collaboration, we have enhanced coastal ecosystems and promoted sustainable fisheries management.

The deployment of 5,400 artificial reefs significantly boosted fisheries resources in the near shore waters, enhancing marine biodiversity and positively impacting local fishermen's livelihoods. Each fisherman now earns an additional income of 12,000 to 15,000 rupees from fishing within the reef zone. The increased fish catch, estimated at 3 to 5 tons per month, translates to an economic value of 3 to 5 lakhs of rupees, improving financial well-being and food security in the region.

Overall, the deployment of artificial reefs has proven transformative, demonstrating the potential of innovative approaches to address environmental challenges while benefiting local communities. This success story serves as a beacon of hope for sustainable marine resource management and livelihood enhancement worldwide.

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MOEF & CC Artificial Reef Project

The successful implementation of the Artificial Reef project at C-Pudupet fishing village in Cuddalore district, supported by the Centre for Environment Education (CEE) and UNDP GEF Small Grant Programme (SGP), marks a significant achievement in promoting sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity conservation in coastal communities.

Through this project, fishermen were provided with the means to enhance fishery resources sustainably, resulting in a substantial increase in fish harvests valued at approximately 15 lakhs within one year. This success demonstrates the positive impact of adopting sustainable practices in resource management, leading to improved livelihoods and economic opportunities for the local community.

The recognition of this project by the Ministry of Environment and Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, and its conferment of the prestigious UNDP India Biodiversity award 2016 highlights the project's exemplary contribution to the sustainable use of biological resources. This accolade underscores PLANT's commitment to environmental stewardship and its effectiveness in implementing impactful initiatives that promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

The award ceremony, graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries including the Hon'ble Environment Minister of India and the Hon'ble Governor of Maharashtra, further validates the significance of the project and its recognition as a model for sustainable resource management practices.

Overall, the success of the Artificial Reef project exemplifies the positive outcomes that can be achieved through collaborative efforts between government agencies, NGOs, and local communities. By promoting sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity conservation, initiatives like these contribute to building resilient and thriving coastal ecosystems while improving the well-being of coastal communities.