Biorock is an innovative, nature-based underwater building material that can benefit the environment and help protect our coastal infrastructure from the impacts of climate change, and Metro Vancouver will be testing how it works in local waters.
Biorock uses natural ingredients in seawater to create concrete-like material on a submerged metal frame, resulting in an underwater structure that can shield shorelines and infrastructure. Biorock also helps ecological restoration by supporting the growth of kelp and seagrass, and creates new habitats for marine creatures.
The first phase of the project will determine the feasibility and ecological benefits of installing a Biorock structure adjacent to the Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant, as well as measure its capacity to sequester carbon. Biorock has already been used in 44 countries to build over 500 artificial coral reefs.
