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In the realm of environmental management, particularly in combating invasive species, it is critical to embrace innovative approaches and involve a diverse array of stakeholders. Traditional methods may be familiar, but they are not always the most effective or efficient solutions for contemporary challenges. This article explores the pressing issue of invasive marine species, specifically rogue urchins, underscoring the need for new technologies and collaborative efforts among communities, citizen scientists, governments, academics, policymakers, and industries. We look at Tasmania, California, and New Zealand, we aim to highlight the potential benefits and challenges of adopting advanced technological solutions over conventional methods. This includes addressing the economic, environmental, and social implications of these choices and proposing a path forward that leverages modern technology to restore and protect marine ecosystems. Case Study 1: Tasmania - Centrostephanus rodgersii In Tasmania, the long-spined sea urchin (Centrostephanus rodgersii) poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems, particularly kelp forests, which have seen a dramatic 95% decline over the last 30 years [1]. The loss of kelp forests has disrupted the entire marine food web, affecting species such as rock lobsters and abalone. Efforts to manage these urchins have primarily included hiring divers to manually remove them. The process is labour-intensive and costly, with estimates for clearing a single bay, Fortescue Bay, approaching one million dollars . Project Idea: Our proposal seeks to leverage underwater drones equipped with specialised tools to cull Centrostephanus rodgersii populations. This approach not only targets inaccessible areas but also ensures comprehensive removal of urchins regardless of size. The underwater drones will conduct culling and harvesting sessions to assess efficacy and environmental impact. Collaboration with local researchers and environmental organisations will ensure data sharing and best practices. Case Study 2: California - Strongylocentrotus purpuratus In California, the purple sea urchin (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus) has devastated kelp forests, crucial habitats for numerous marine species [6]. The loss of kelp forests has led to a decline in biodiversity and negatively impacted fisheries and tourism, with economic losses estimated in the millions of dollars [7]. Volunteer divers have stepped in to help manage the urchin populations, a wonderful display of community. The traditional methods of control in California include manual removal by volunteer divers and the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) to facilitate kelp forest recovery [9]. Organisations such as Reef Check California and Giant Giant Kelp Restoration Project coordinate volunteer efforts to manually remove urchins, while local fisheries sometimes provide incentives for urchin removal [10]. Companies like Ocean Rainforest work with local divers to harvest urchins, which are then processed for various uses including the culinary market [11]. These efforts have shown some success, with localised kelp recovery observed in areas with intensive urchin removal [12]. Case Study 3: New Zealand - Integrated Management Approach New Zealand faces similar challenges with urchin barrens in its northeastern waters. Fisheries New Zealand has proposed an integrated management approach that includes a new special permit under the Fisheries Act to allow for the harvest, culling, or translocation of urchins for habitat restoration [13]. This proactive stance aims to mitigate the spread of urchin barrens and restore marine ecosystems, setting a precedent for innovative management practices [14].New Zealand also has the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund with funding for innovative projects that have sustainable benefits to New Zealand, from under NZ$100,000 to over NZ$1,000,000. Traditional methods in New Zealand involve both manual removal by divers and commercial harvesting. Companies such as Southern Clams Ltd. and Moana New Zealand have engaged in harvesting sea urchins for their roe, providing economic incentives for divers to remove urchins [15]. This approach has been partially effective, with some improvements in kelp forest health following urchin removal, but the scale and logistics of manual culling remain challenging [16]. Challenges and Opportunities The traditional method of hiring divers to manually remove urchins is costly and inefficient. Estimates for clearing a single bay , Fortescue Bay in Tasmania approach one million dollars, with significant operational constraints [17]. In contrast, our underwater drones, costing $5,000 each, offer a more economical, efficient, and safer alternative. These inexpensive underwater drones can operate in deeper waters, longer hours, and even at night when urchins can be more active. Divers could operate these drones as a way to supplement their income. We would welcome any divers in Tasmania to contact us with this opportunity. This selective commercial harvesting can result in sustained or even increased urchin populations, as the smaller urchins continue to consume kelp and grow [18]. Allowing urchins to eat the kelp ensures they are of higher commercial value, but it directly conflicts with the goal of kelp forest restoration. Studies on the quality of urchins from barren areas versus those from kelp-rich environments indicate that urchins fed on kelp are preferred for commercial purposes due to their better taste and higher market value (Hereu et al., 2019) Research has shown that selective harvesting of larger urchins can lead to sustained population levels of smaller urchins, which continue to graze on kelp and inhibit forest recovery (Johnson et al., 2011) Kelp forests are crucial marine habitats that support a wide range of marine life. Overgrazing by urchins can lead to the formation of urchin barrens, where kelp and other marine vegetation are decimated. This has significant ecological consequences, including loss of biodiversity and disruption of the marine food web. Effective urchin population control requires the removal of urchins of all sizes, not just the larger, commercially valuable ones. Leaving smaller urchins in place allows the population to rebound, leading to continuous pressure on kelp forests and preventing their recovery. The ecological importance of kelp forests and the detrimental impact of urchin overgrazing are well-documented, highlighting the need for comprehensive management strategies that address the entire urchin population (Ling et al., 2009) The need for innovative solutions in managing invasive marine species is evident. Embracing new technologies, such as underwater drones, can provide effective and scalable solutions to these challenges. By fostering collaboration and openness to innovation, we can better protect and restore our marine ecosystems. Down Deep Drones founder John Griffiths has been granted a scientific research permit to test his urchin culling and harvesting tools on an underwater drone in Tasmania. We will let you know of our progress in these blogs and perhaps look out for our Kickstarter campaign to be launched soon! References 1. Ling, S. D., et al. "Overfishing Reduces Resilience of Kelp Beds to Climate-Driven Catastrophic Phase Shift." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol. 106, no. 52, 2009, pp. 22341–22345. 2. Johnson, C. R., et al. "Climate Change Cascades: Shifts in Oceanography, Species' Ranges and Subtidal Marine Community Dynamics in Eastern Tasmania." Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology, vol. 400, no. 1-2, 2011, pp. 17-32. 3. "Managing the Long-Spined Sea Urchin in Tasmania." Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania. 4. "Abalone Industry Reinvestment Fund." Tasmanian Government, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment. 5. "Tasmanian Sea Urchin Industry." Sea Urchin Harvest Company. https://seaurchinharvest.com.au 6. "California's Kelp Forests: Urchin Crisis and Restoration Efforts." California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 7. Rogers-Bennett, L., and Catton, C. A. "Marine Heat Wave and Multiple Stressors Tip Bull Kelp to Sea Urchin Barrens." Scientific Reports, vol. 9, no. 1, 2019, pp. 15050. 8. "Purple Sea Urchin Management." Reef Check California. 9. "Urchin Barrens and Kelp Forest Restoration." Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. 10. "Volunteer Divers in California." Reef Check California. 11. "Sea Urchin Harvest and Processing." Ocean Rainforest. 12. "Kelp Forest Recovery in California." California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 13. "Urchin Barrens in Northeastern New Zealand." Fisheries New Zealand. 14. Shears, N. T., and Babcock, R. C. "Marine Reserves Demonstrate Top-Down Control of Community Structure on Temperate Reefs." Oecologia, vol. 132, no. 1, 2002, pp. 131-142. 15. "Commercial Sea Urchin Harvesting in New Zealand." Southern Clams Ltd. 16. "Integrated Management of Sea Urchins." Fisheries New Zealand. 17. "Economic Analysis of Sea Urchin Removal." Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute. 18. "Challenges in Marine Pest Management." Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. Our Kickstarter Campaign! A quick update. Not long now 'till the launch of our Kickstarter project - we hope the project will be approved and then we will start to promote it. Overgrazing urchins could be culled or harvested using our tools that attach to QYSEA underwater drones. John has made a few urchin culling tools to put on QYSEA FIFISH underwater drones. We have two QYSEA FIFISH V-Evos with grabber claws and John has made a special motor to power his tools in conjunction with the grabber actuator. With the motor to power or propel the tools, John then set about designing tools to cull or harvest the urchins. Here is John making a CAD file for the Axe Head. Most of the time we are able to 3D print the CAD files, and test the size and shape of the tools. If they work out, we then send them off to be machined. We have a very competent machinist that is quick, capable and affordable. We have worked with them on over twenty different jobs and are always happy. Any small issues are remedied immediately. Sometimes we make small changes after receiving the machined parts. Most of the time we are able to use them. Repeating Spear Rotary Cutting Blade with Saw Tooth (teeth) Propelled Spear with Drill Bit We have other urchin culling tools on the way and will add the videos to this blog soon! Here are our extra wide grabber claws, and we are attaching a basket underneath them to harvest the urchins. These may help divers to harvest in deeper waters and maximise their time. Anyone interested in finding out more information on the project can reach alicia@downdeepdrones.com .

At Down Deep Drones we are a small social enterprise currently based in Queensland, Australia. John Griffiths, robotics engineer Down Deep Drones Our robotics engineer John Griffiths works tirelessly creating innovative solutions for marine and deep water environmental challenges that incorporate the use and intervention of small underwater drones. Amongst Johns significant contributions, his prototypes include:- Crown of Thorns Starfish Injecting Underwater Drone Rogue Urchin Culling Underwater Drone Marine Debris Collecting Underwater Drone with specific tools including a ghost net cutter. Our major and continuing obstacle is a lack of funding.  We have exhausted our private funds, and have looked to grants in Australia to support our endeavours however with no success. We needed to fund the development of our marine debris collecting underwater drone “De Litter Bug” It is a scalable, inexpensive remotely operated vehicle (ROV) designed for the collection of underwater marine debris. This innovative technology addresses a critical gap in ocean cleanup, offering a unique and specific solution for underwater debris removal, including the cutting of ghost nets. In the concept phase we sought information in the market about other brands of ROVs involved in marine debris collecting. Finding that there was a gap in the market, we researched the attachments and tools of these ROVs discovering that the tools had limited application for this purpose. We progressed, developed our ROV and then tested it in a swimming pool. It has transitioned beyond the concept phase to become a functional prototype, Serving as a fully integrated model, it effectively demonstrates key functionalities like the heavy lift bag, grappling hook, and ghost net cutting tool. The development process has been focused on ensuring technical aspects and performance are robust, positioning the prototype for thorough validation and testing in relevant "industrial" and operational environments. Having rejected our previous iteration we have now designed a new Blue Robotics based system and are celebrating our first sale to Ocean Crusaders. Ocean Crusaders have ordered a De Litter Bug! A huge boost for our belief that there is a demand for the solutions we can provide. The version we are supplying Ocean Crusaders. with includes a sonar, doppler velocity logger, robotic claw, grappling hook and a twin disc rope and wire cutter. This is the first ROV that can both cut a ghost net, entangled fishing gear and also lift it ready for collection. Its batteries are IATA approved for air travel. It is versatile, efficient and can be deployed in minutes. Possible options include a De Litter Bug that could go down to 1000 metres. Absolutely fabulous news - we will soon have footage to share on our YouTube channel and will post all our tests. We wish to test the De Litter Bug in the following:- Rivers and lakes - freshwater locations like Chao Phraya River in Thailand extremely challenging. Ocean - open seas, inland, salt water, depth and pressure testing at100m 200m 300m Norfolk Island Types of debris -plastic, metal, nets , bottles/cans, motor vehicles! Volume of debris - challenging marine debris density like the Gulf of Thailand. ROV performance - thrusters, battery, visibility, navigation. Tools - cutter, collector, lift-bag, grappling hook for items unto 250kg Capacity- volume, weight, speed, time taken for task. Document and video all tests. Test results will quantitatively measure time efficiency, debris collection rates, weight capacity, speed, and depth range. Make minor corrections or improvements to the ROV in response to initial tests. Conduct further tests with environmental organisations to be included in their clean up schedule. Invite feedback on performance of the ROV and tools. Make minor correction or improvements after feedback. Please contact us if you would like us to join your clean ups! We will bring our De Litter Bug and help you worldwide.  We are particularly interested in being involved with the Ocean Clean Up and would be available to use our underwater drone in any way that the organisers would like - including river surveys and canal debris removal underwater. Feeling happy!!! #OceanCrusaders#BeizhanYan #MarineDebris #TheOceanCleanup #BoyanSlat #ChauPhrayaRiver #BlueRobotics #DeLitterBug #SevenCleanSeas #ChulaUniversity #ghostgear #ALDFG #Tharman #SeaShepherd

Unlocking Underwater Exploration: Spear Gun on an ROV - The Ultimate Guide Welcome to Down Deep Drones, where cutting-edge technology meets underwater exploration in an innovative and responsible manner. We have developed the first commercially available underwater drone with a spear gun attached, revolutionising the way we interact with the ocean. With years of rigorous testing on Blue Robotics ROVs, we proudly present our perfected designs, including a version that can also be mounted on the QYSEA FIFISH range. Check out our underwater drones with spear gun on our website here www.downdeepdrones.com/spear-fishing Inspired by the potential of underwater drones, we set out to develop a technology that could help with sustainable fishing and help researchers with shark tagging with an underwater drone. Innovative Technology: Our team's dedication has led us to design an underwater drone with a spear gun attachment that ensures precision, safety, and efficiency. This combination of ROV technology and our innovative spear gun attachment has opened up new horizons for researchers, conservationists, and marine enthusiasts alike. Our testing process allowed us to overcome challenges and create a reliable and effective system that strikes a balance between functionality and conservation. Versatility: We are pleased to announce that our spear gun attachment can be compatible not only with Blue Robotics ROVs but also with the QYSEA FIFISH range. This versatility makes the underwater drone accessible and practical for a wide range of applications. Precision Targeting: Precision: ROVs equipped with spear guns allow for precise targeting of specific organisms or objects, enhancing the accuracy of tagging, sampling, or data collection.
 Non-Invasive Tagging: The ability to tag animals remotely with spear guns can reduce the stress and disturbance caused by direct human intervention, leading to more reliable data collection and minimising potential harm to the tagged animals.
 Efficiency: ROVs can cover large areas and reach depths that might be challenging for human divers, increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of tagging or data collection efforts.
 Safety: Using ROVs with spear guns can eliminate the need for human divers to engage in potentially hazardous activities, improving safety during underwater operations. Safety is at the core of our design principles. Our underwater drone with a spear gun reduces the need for human divers to engage in potentially hazardous activities. Who wants to poke a shark with a pointy object? By removing direct human interaction, we not only ensure the safety of researchers and divers but also minimise stress on marine species, promoting ethical research and responsible conservation practices. Empowering Sustainable Fishing: With the rise of sustainable fishing practices, our underwater drone with a spear gun can play a role in responsible fishing. Precise tagging of fish and monitoring their movements aids in sustainable fisheries management, helping to preserve marine ecosystems and ensuring the longevity of fish stocks. Reduced bycatch, and the possibility of just targeting one large fish, means that we only target and take what we need. Helping Island Communities Feed their Families Inexpensively Introducing an underwater drone with a spear gun to low income island communities can offer several potential benefits, particularly when it comes to sustainable fishing and resource management. Access to Remote Areas: Island communities often rely heavily on fishing for their livelihoods. Having an underwater drone with a spear gun can give them access to remote and hard-to-reach fishing grounds that might be challenging to access with traditional boats and fishing gear.
 Reduced Investment Costs: Traditional fishing vessels and gear can be expensive for these communities to acquire and maintain. Implementing underwater drones as an alternative can be a more cost-effective solution, allowing them to engage in fishing activities without the significant financial burden.
 Looking Ahead: At Down Deep Drones, we are incredibly excited about the future of underwater exploration. Our innovative technology bridges the gap between sustainable use and environmental preservation. As we continue to refine our designs and expand our offerings, we envision and hope for a world where underwater drones become indispensable tools for sustainable marine research and conservation. Speargun for a QYSEA FIFISH underwater drone. Machined alloy mounts. Easily taken on and off. Effective maximum range with 30cm pneumatic speargun is 3 metres with the mounts sighted in at 2.75 metres. Larger spear gun mounts and adapter plates available for spearguns up to 55cm , additional USD $100 Controlled Testing Video From QYSEA FIFISH EVO 05/10/23 Same Shot From Above If you already own a QYSEA FIFISH - USD$950 including claw. Not including shipping and taxes. If you already own a QYSEA FIFISH and claw - USD $400 not including shipping and taxes If you do not own a QYSEA please contact us. Please contact us at info@downdeepdrones.com or call +61 420582225 Spearing Fish Testing Video - Coming Soon!

There can be regulations concerning the harvesting of marine resources such as scollops, abalone, crayfish/lobster in some countries. The way that these species are harvested are regulated sometimes to “hand harvesting” only. It is therefore in the interests of the fisher to be as efficient as possible with their time and resources. Using the ROV to Locate High Value Marine Resources At Down Deep Drones our ROV X-Calibre has been designed in such a hydrodynamic way that it can be towed behind a boat or jet ski, and at high speed, locate the resource through benthic surveys, helping to save the diver valuable time. No more guesswork- but instead clear target areas for the upcoming dive. Abalone divers may find this to be of particular value. Divers who recover resources such as abalone, crayfish, sea urchins, sea cucumber etc spend a lot of time and money looking for areas where the resource is in sufficient quantities. We can scout areas and provide GPS co-ordinates, video, depth and by using the on-board laser scaler, also sizes of the resource. This is valuable for measuring abalone to make sure the diver isn’t wasting time on areas where the resource is undersized. In the case of cray/lobster/crab fishing, not only can we map where the highest densities of the resource are congregated, we can lift the pot up with the ROV and re-set it in very close proximity to where that high density is. That changes the catch rate considerably. View our range of underwater drones here www.downdeepdrones.com Collecting Resources with the ROV Because bottom time is so valuable for a diver, and bags with abalone can be very heavy, using the ROV to hold the bag, not only allows the diver a free hand, but can also improve catch numbers. At Down Deep Drones, we have an easy way to release the bag, and send it to the surface without the divers assistance. View our website here www.downdeepdrones.com Contact us for details Locating Lost Equipment with the ROV Lobster pots and cray pots can be expensive and can also cause frustration when lost. By using the ROV to survey the fishing area, lost pots can be found and retrieved. Other fishers could be very grateful and do occasionally give a small reward for their pots return. Crayfish fishers could have another alternate income stream.

Have you ever wondered how underwater robots can help in marine conservation? Look no further than Blue Robotics, a California-based company that designs and manufactures affordable and easy-to-use underwater robotics for various industries, including marine conservation. Back in 2014, Blue Robotics launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund their first product, the T100 Thruster, which we at Down Deep Drones purchased for our own ROV projects. The campaign exceeded their funding goal in just two weeks, showing the high demand for their technology. What sets Blue Robotics apart is their focus on making underwater robotics accessible to everyone. Their open-source software allows students, educators, and researchers to customise their underwater robots to suit their specific needs. This makes it easy to conduct experiments or collect data relevant to marine conservation efforts. Their products have been used in various marine conservation projects around the world, from tracking endangered species to monitoring coral reefs and studying ocean acidification. For instance, researchers used the T200 Thruster to power an ROV equipped with a camera to collect images and videos of plastic waste, aiding efforts to monitor plastic pollution in the ocean. Blue Robotics' success can be attributed not only to their innovative products but also to their collaborative and community-focused approach. They have created online forums and resources where customers can share tips and advice on building and operating underwater robots. They also regularly participate in events and workshops to connect with the marine robotics community. With Blue Robotics' open-source software, it has allowed other businesses and organisations to use their technology in their own products and projects. This further expands the impact of Blue Robotics' innovation and helps drive progress towards a sustainable ocean future. Blue Robotics is playing a significant role in advancing marine conservation efforts through their accessible and customisable underwater robotics. Their commitment to collaboration and community building is helping to create a network of marine robotics enthusiasts dedicated to a sustainable ocean future. At Down Deep Drones, we are proud to incorporate Blue Robotics' products into our own marine conservation projects and we look forward to seeing how their technology will continue to make a difference. View our range of underwater drones here www.downdeepdrones.com

Marine debris, such as plastics, abandoned fishing nets, and other waste, is a serious problem for the world's oceans and rivers. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also harm marine life, damage ecosystems, and impact the livelihoods of coastal communities. One technology that has been used to tackle this problem is remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). ROVs are underwater robots that can be controlled from the surface and used to perform a variety of tasks, including surveying the seabed, collecting samples, and manipulating objects. They are often equipped with cameras and other sensors that allow operators to see what is happening in the underwater environment. View our prototype here www.downdeepdrones.com/de-litter-bug Marine Debris Collection with ROVs There have been several initiatives that have used ROVs to collect marine debris. One example is the "Operation Ghost Net" project, which was launched in 2018 by the non-profit organisation Healthy Seas. The project used an ROV called the "Deep Trekker DTG2" to locate and remove "ghost nets" – fishing nets that have been lost or abandoned and are still floating in the water, posing a threat to marine life. The operation took place in the Adriatic Sea, off the coast of Croatia, and the ROV was able to collect several tons of nets over the course of several dives. No customisation was made to the ROV for this specific mission. The DTG2 is available commercially from USD $8,000. Another ROV, "The Brigitte Bardot," is a Triton XLS submersible that was used by the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society to remove abandoned fishing gear from the Gulf of California back in 2010. The Brigitte Bardot has a depth rating of 1000 meters, and is equipped with a manipulator arm and a high-definition camera. It was named after the French actress and animal rights activist, and is part of a larger fleet of ships and submersibles used by the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society for marine conservation efforts. It is custom built and not commercially available. "The Star III," used by the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, collected debris in the Sea of Japan after the 2011 tsunami. The Star III is a remotely operated vehicle with a depth rating of 3,000 meters, and is equipped with a manipulator arm, sonar, and video camera. It was used to locate and retrieve debris, such as cars, boats, and other large items, from the ocean floor. The OceanOne, developed by Stanford University to explore and collect archaeological artefacts from shipwrecks, is a humanoid robotic diver that can operate at depths of up to 2,000 meters. It is equipped with two manipulator arms, high-resolution cameras, and sensors that allow it to "feel" its surroundings. In addition to marine debris collection, the OceanOne has been used for deep-sea exploration and scientific research. The Scottish government used the Mini ROV, the Trident OpenROV, in 2018 to remove plastic waste from the ocean floor in a marine protected area. The Mini ROV is a small, manoeuverable ROV that is equipped with a high-definition camera and manipulator arm and can operate at depths of up to 100 meters.It was also used by the California State Parks Department to collect marine debris. OpenROV is according to our research no longer available. The Yogi, used by the Ocean Voyages Institute in 2020, is a custom-built, remotely operated vessel designed specifically for marine debris collection. It is equipped with multiple cameras, sensors, and manipulator arms, and can operate at depths of up to 600 meters. The Yogi was part of a larger fleet of ships and ROVs used by the Ocean Voyages Institute for marine debris removal. "The Seaeye Falcon DR"is used by the Marine Conservation Society to survey and remove marine debris from the waters around the UK. The Seaeye Falcon DR is a remotely operated vehicle that can operate at depths of up to 300 meters. It is equipped with a high-definition camera, a manipulator arm, and a sonar system, and can be deployed from a small boat or from shore. The ROV is used to identify and collect marine debris, such as abandoned fishing gear, plastic bags, and other litter. The Seaeye Falcon starts at around $200,000 USD Deep Discoverer is a remotely operated vehicle used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to explore and study deep-sea environments. The Deep Discoverer is not available commercially. Two brands of ROVs that are well-manufactured, efficient and well-priced and that have been used in marine debris collection are the Blue Robotics BR2 and also QYSEA. In 2019, the Ocean Voyages Institute used a BR2 ROV to help clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The ROV was used to locate and collect large items of debris, which were then lifted onboard the cleanup vessel. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute (CMARI) in Florida has also used the BR2 ROV for marine debris collection. In 2020, the CMARI team used the ROV to retrieve a large piece of debris from the Gulf of Mexico, which was then analysed for its impact on marine life. In 2020, the National University of Singapore used a QYSEA FIFISH V6 ROV to collect marine debris in the waters around Singapore. The ROV was equipped with a custom-made mesh net to capture debris, which was then analysed for its impact on marine ecosystems. The Oceanographic Research Institute in South Africa has also used a QYSEA FIFISH V6 ROV for marine debris collection. In 2021, the ROV was used to survey the impact of a major oil spill on marine life, and to collect debris that had been contaminated by the spill. First Commercially Available ROV Specifically for Marine Debris While there have been some initiatives that have used ROVs for marine debris collection, there has not been a ROV specifically designed and commercially available for this purpose. This is where the De Litter Bug comes in. The De Litter Bug is a ROV that has been designed from the ground up for marine debris collection. Marine Debris Tools on De Litter Bug With a price tag of less than $8,000 USD, it is an affordable option for many organisations. De Litter Bug ROV is equipped with a variety of tools that make it particularly effective for marine debris collection. These include a ghost net cutter, heavy lift bag, can and bottle collector, and grappling hook. With these tools, the De Litter Bug ROV is capable of collecting a wide range of marine debris, from fishing nets to plastic bottles. One of the key advantages of the De Litter Bug ROV is its ability to cut through ghost nets. Ghost nets are fishing nets that have been lost or abandoned in the ocean. They can continue to trap and kill marine life for years, even decades. By cutting through these nets, the De Litter Bug ROV can help prevent this harm to marine life. The heavy lift bag on the De Litter Bug ROV is also a useful tool for marine debris collection. It allows the ROV to lift heavy or bulky items, up to 250kgs in weight, such as large fishing nets, off the ocean floor and bring them to the surface for disposal. The can and bottle collector is another important feature of the De Litter Bug ROV. It allows the ROV to collect small items of marine debris, such as plastic bottles and cans, which can be harmful to marine life if ingested. Finally, the grappling hook on the De Litter Bug ROV is useful for collecting larger items of marine debris, such as discarded fishing gear or other debris that may be too large for the other tools on the ROV. Able to go to 600 metres, and with its low price means that buying a remotely operated vehicle for marine debris collection it is an option many organisations may now consider. Remote Asset Management and ROVs There are a few stages in the development of the De Litter Bug, including allowing it to be operated remotely - that is, with remote asset management. Remote asset management for our ROV refers to the ability to remotely control and monitor the ROV's operations and data from anywhere in the world, as long as there is an internet connection. This can be done through a secure connection that is established over the internet or with Starlink satellite internet service. It allows users to connect to the internet from anywhere in the world, even in remote areas where traditional internet infrastructure is not available. With a reliable and high-speed internet connection, users can control and monitor the ROV's operations in real-time, regardless of their geographical location. Volunteers from environmental organisations could take turns in using the ROV for marine debris collection no matter the people are located or where the ROVs are located in the world. These technologies enable real-time monitoring and decision-making, which can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the ROV's operations, and expand its capabilities to remote and inaccessible areas or the high seas. A Healthy Future For Our Oceans The use of ROVs for marine debris collection is likely to continue to grow in the future as technology advances and more organisations become involved in marine conservation efforts. At Down Deep Drones we see our initiative as creating a strong possibility to assist organisations in this essential task. View our prototype here www.downdeepdrones.com/de-litter-bug #ROVsandMarineDebris #ROVsandMarineDebrisTools

Are you thinking about buying a remotely operated vehicle or underwater drone (ROV)? There are a lot of options out there, but it's important to consider your needs and priorities when making a decision. To help you out, we've put together a guide on what to look for when buying one of these devices. One of your first decisions is - what depths do you need the ROV to go to? This will eliminate a few choices for you straight away. What do you need it for? First off, you'll want a vehicle that is highly manoeuvrable. This means it should have a vectored configuration and preferably six degrees of freedom for lateral freedom. A stable work platform is also important, with active depth-hold, attitude-hold, and heading-hold capabilities. You'll also want a vehicle that is independent of mains power, with battery power instead. Check out our range of underwater vehicles here www.downdeepdrones.com Transportability is another key factor to consider. Look for a device that complies with IATA regulations and comes with suitable transport cases. Look at your countries civil aviation rules for transporting batteries. Additionally check out your preferred airlines policy on transporting the batteries - we have been caught out recently. We will share a blog on this soon! It should also be able to be operated by a small team, or one person , with a weight of less than 20 kg when in the water, a detachable tether and reel, and compliance with safety standards. Adaptability is another important characteristic, with the ability to accept ancillary equipment and be easily modified. Perhaps you would like an extra camera? A grabber claw? Modular construction is also a plus, as it makes the device easily repaired with field replaceable components. Is it open source - and what are the benefits of this? When it comes to beneficial characteristics, a long operational life with a battery capacity greater than 2 hours and the option to supply surface power is ideal. Camera quality is also important, with the ability to record high resolution video and stills, a variable focus lens, and variable focal length (zoom) lens. Multiple views are also helpful, with the ability to add additional cameras and a main camera on a servo-tilt mechanism. A remote connection is a valuable feature, allowing the device to be connected to the web and livestream vision, as well as being controlled remotely. Navigational aids like sonar support are also a plus, as is a topside unit with a daylight screen and the ability to support additional viewing aids. Of course, with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. We've done some research and found two devices, other than our own !, that are particularly noteworthy: the FIFISH V6 and the Blue Robotics ROV2. The FIFISH V6 was released in 2019 by QYSEA Technology Co. in China. It has six thrusters, a partially vectored configuration, and is centrally ballasted. The vehicle weighs in at 3.9 kg and has six degrees of freedom. The Blue Robotics ROV2, produced by Blue Robotics in the USA, was released in 2016 and has six thrusters, a partially vectored configuration, and is ballast stabilised. It has a weight of 11 kg and four degrees of freedom. There is another model the BR2 and we rate it highly. Ultimately, the best remotely operated vehicle or underwater drone for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities. By considering the essential and beneficial characteristics outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to making an informed decision. Check out our range of underwater robots here www.downdeepdrones.com Contact us for any questions at info@downdeepdrones.com or share your preferences and experiences!

Rent an ROV and Collect Marine Debris - Are you concerned about the state of our oceans and marine life? Do you want to make a positive impact on the environment, but don't know where to start? We at Down Deep Drones have developed a low-cost and easy-to-use Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to collect marine debris. Still a prototype - The specialised tools that we use, are also compatible with established brands Blue Robotics BR2 and QYSEA. Check out our website here www.downdeepdrones.com/de-litter-bug Many environmental organisations already own these brands of ROVs , and so by allowing our tools to be used on them, we are helping reduce their operating costs. This compatibility provides cost-saving benefits by allowing organisations to use their existing equipment instead of investing in new, specialised ROVs. Using existing ROVs optimises resources, reduces downtime and leads to increased efficiency in marine debris collection operations. Standardised tools across different ROVs enable better data comparison with other organisations and regions, resulting in more effective large-scale environmental initiatives. The ROV for marine debris collection is used in coastal areas, ports, harbours and the ocean. Its practical applications include removing abandoned fishing nets and plastics. The innovative features, such as the heavy lift bag that inflates and lifts items up to 250kg to the surface, the ghost-net cutter that cuts wire, the grappling hook that attaches and lifts items to the surface and the bottle and can collector that scoops items from the ocean floor are not available on other commercial ROVs. The ROV will be available at $10,000 , making it affordable for small and large environmental/community groups and governments worldwide. It also has a significant market potential in ocean-based industries like offshore energy, aquaculture and underwater mining for cleaning up debris. Down Deep Drones will also develope an online automated platform that connects a global network of already owned ROVs to individuals concerned for the environment. The platform will streamline the collection of marine debris and provides a semi-automated model for marine debris collection. The connection allows the remote operator to control the ROV, and the system helps ROV owners, like environmental organisations, maximise the use of their asset and generate income from it. The booking platform will link ROVs on a large scale to perform essential tasks and raise public awareness of the enormous scale of marine debris, estimated to be over five trillion pieces of plastic debris in the ocean. By using innovative technology, Down Deep Drones wants to make a significant contribution to improving the quality of life for people living near the ocean and removing hazardous marine debris from the water. It saves time and money by making marine debris collection more efficient and cost-effective, bolstering the economy by providing a low-cost solution that can be used by environmental and community groups around the world. But what makes the system truly exciting is that it's not just for marine biologists or ocean researchers. Gamers and hobbyists can also get involved! Imagine using an ROV (remotely operated underwater vehicle) to explore the depths of the ocean and collect marine debris. It's like a real-life video game, but with a positive impact on the environment. The rental of the ROVs will be around $20 per hour. Affordable to many people, bringing in an income to the environmental organisations and helping less wealthy nations to make use of their assets and create an income. Did you know that there are currently over 1 million ROVs in use around the world? By using our system, we can significantly increase the number of people collecting marine debris and ultimately help to reduce the amount of plastic and other waste in our oceans. So let's come together and make a positive impact on the environment. With Down deep drones, we can have fun, explore the depths of the ocean, and feel good about doing our part to protect our planet. I believe that this system has the ability to take off and become a popular choice for people who want to make a difference. And the potential for positive change is exactly what we love at Down Deep Drones. So if you're looking for a way to make a difference and have fun doing it, consider investing in a Down Deep Drones ROV, or possibly just rent one by the hour when the booking system is up and running, and start helping collect marine debris. Together, we can help protect our oceans and the creatures that call them home.

Get more information on our marine debris collecting prototype here www.downdeepdrones.com/de-litter-bug Here are the first photos of our new underwater drone for collecting marine debris. Able to go to depths of 100m this marine debris collecting underwater drone can be operated from shore or from a boat. It is portable, weighing 16kg and can combine tools as this image shows - a can and bottle collector that can scoop around 30 small cans and bottles, a rake that moves in and out and a grinder to cut through ghost nets and ropes. Other interchangeable tools still under development include a heavy lift bag and grappling hook. The ROV's Multi-Functional Design: The ROV has a multi-functional design. It is equipped with a range of features that enable it to tackle various types of marine debris effectively: still in the testing phase this is our first iteration. Collection Scoop: The ROV's thrusters and electronics are mounted on top of a collection scoop capable of holding 20-30 cans or bottles. This scoop serves as the primary receptacle for the debris. Rake System: One method employed to capture debris involves a rake that is pulled in and out on twin sliding rails by a T200 motor. This mechanism is designed to efficiently funnel trash into the collection scoop. Thruster-Wash System: The second approach relies on the thruster wash of two T200 motors mounted in front of the scoop, facing inward at 45 degrees. This setup is intended to guide debris into the collection area with precision. Cutting Mechanism: To address the persistent problem of ghost nets and abandoned fishing gear, the ROV is equipped with a cutting mechanism. An M200 motor extends a boom with a cutting disc at the end, allowing the ROV to free entangled objects. Grappling Hook: Future enhancements include the addition of a grappling hook connected to a light rope reel. This feature will enable the ROV to hook onto nets and other objects, allowing them to be pulled up to the surface during retrieval. Pony Tank and Lift Bag: Further down the development track, a pony tank and lift bag will be added to provide additional lift capacity for the final debris retrieval process. Next Steps and Call to Action: While this prototype is nearly finished, there is still much work to be done to make it a fully functional entity. However, the potential it holds to combat marine debris is significant, with your help. . Here's how you can get involved and support this initiative: Share Your Reactions: Share your thoughts and reactions to this innovative ROV on social media platforms using the hashtag #CleanOceansNow. Provide Feedback: Here at Down Deep Drones we are always striving to make the best ROVs possible to deal with some of the planets environmental problems and we would very much value your suggestions on how we can improve. Spread the Word: Share this blog and information about the ROV with your network. Encourage others to join the effort to combat marine debris. By actively engaging with this project, we can collectively work towards cleaner oceans and a brighter future for our planet. Together, we can turn the tide on marine debris and inspire others to explore the potential of ROVs in environmental solutions.

Handy Reference for Air travel with links Are you planning to travel with your drone or ROV? Don't let the excitement of your adventure blind you to the rules and regulations governing air travel. Before you pack your gear, it's important to know what you can and cannot bring on board. International rules, such as those set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and country-specific regulations, like those enforced by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), can vary greatly. In addition, individual airlines may have their own policies on what is allowed in carry-on and checked baggage. Check out our underwater drones here https://downdeepdrones.com We recently travelled from Tasmania to the Gold Coast in Australia and had two batteries with us. They were both lithium polymer batteries 14.8V, 10Ah. According to IATA and our countries civil aviation authority CASA, we were allowed to bring them on board the plane as carry- on. We approached the security scanning desk at Hobart International Airport and to our surprise were told that we could not travel with them. The option was to not travel or leave our batteries behind. As it turns out, after some confusion and lost time, we were allowed to carry them on board, with the help of our airline Jetstar. This confusion made us realise that not all staff at every airport may be up to date on what batteries you can carry on or not. It pays to have something on your phone to reference the rules in case you get in a situation like we did. It could save you a lot of time. Below, we have included links to some airlines policies on the carriage of batteries. Be aware that the same airline travelling to a different country may also have different rules. Please do not rely on this information - do your own research. Rules change and be prepared, polite and sometimes, like in our case, be persistent! check out our underwater drones here www.downdeepdrones.com Here are some things to keep in mind when traveling with your ROV or drone: 1.Battery type and Watt hours The first thing you need to know is what type of battery your device uses and its watt-hour rating. This information will help you determine whether you can bring your device on board or if you need to check it in. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used for drones and ROVs and are subject to restrictions when traveling by air. Watt hours (Wh) are determined by multiplying the voltage (V) by the amp hours (Ah). ie. 12V x 5Ah = 60Wh 2.Number of Batteries Most airlines have restrictions on the number of lithium-ion batteries that can be carried on board, the size of the battery, and the watt-hour rating. It is important to check with your airline to find out what their specific restrictions are, as they can vary from airline to airline. 3.Battery Weight and Size The weight and size of the batteries are also important considerations when traveling with an ROV or drone. If the batteries are not removable, you need to make sure that the total weight of the device, including the batteries, is within the airline's weight restrictions for carry-on luggage. If you need to check the device, you also need to ensure that you are complying with airline rules as generally batteries CANNOT be checked in. 4.Check Your Airline Dangerous Goods Links It is always a good idea to check the airline's website for their dangerous goods guidelines. The guidelines will provide information on what items are prohibited or restricted on board and what the rules are for carrying lithium-ion batteries. Airlines have different rules. 5.Consider Packing the Batteries Separately If you can remove the batteries, it is a good idea to pack them separately in your carry-on luggage. This will make it easier for security officials to inspect them, and it can also reduce the risk of damage to your device during the screening process. 6.Use a Battery Storage Bag It is recommended that you use a battery storage bag to store your batteries during travel. These bags are designed to contain any fire or smoke that may occur if the battery is damaged or malfunctioning. They can also help protect the batteries from damage during transport. 7.Get a Battery Discharge Certificate Some airlines may require a battery discharge certificate for lithium-ion batteries that exceed a certain watt-hour rating. This certificate confirms that the battery has been discharged to a safe level before travel, reducing the risk of fire or explosion. Traveling with an ROV or drone by air requires careful planning and preparation. The most important thing is to do your research and check with your airline regarding their specific guidelines for carrying these devices and their batteries. By following the tips mentioned above, will help - that your device and its batteries are transported safely and securely. Aer Lingus:https://www.aerlingus.com/media/pdfs/guide-to-dangerous-goods.pdf AirAsia: https://support.airasia.com/s/article/What-items-are-prohibited-en?language=en_GB Air Canada: https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/baggage/restricted-and-prohibited-items.html#/ Air China: https://www.airchina.com.au/AU/GB/info/dangerous-goods/lithium-batteries.html Air France: https://img.static-af.com/m/6f0eaaeab38ab64f/original/Bagages-Batterie-Lithium-FR.pdf Air India: https://www.airindia.com/in/en/travel-information/baggage-guidelines/restricted-baggage.html Air Inuit:https://www.airinuit.com/en/manage/baggage/restrictions-and-prohibited-items Air New Zealand: https://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/dangerous-goods Air North: https://www.flyairnorth.com/lithium-batteries/ Air Transat: https://www.airtransat.com/en-CA/travel-information/baggage/restricted-prohibited-items Alaska Airlines: https://www.alaskaair.com/content/travel-info/baggage/prohibited-items Allegiant Air: https://www.allegiantair.com/baggage#prohibited Alitalia: https://www.ita-airways.com/en_en/fly-ita/baggage/hazardous-materials-prohibited-onboard.html American Airlines: https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/baggage/restricted-items.jsp#dangerous ANA (All Nippon Airways): https://www.ana.co.jp/en/jp/guide/terms/dom-conditions-of-carriage/ Austrian Airlines: https://www.austrian.com/Info/Fly/Baggage/DangerousGoods.aspx?sc_lang=en&cc=US Bangkok Airways: https://www.bangkokair.com/dangerous-goods British Airways: https://www.britishairways.com/en-gb/information/baggage-essentials/liquids-and-restrictions Canadian North: https://canadiannorth.com/passenger-information/dangerous-goods/ Cathay Pacific: https://www.cathaypacific.com/cx/en_HK/baggage/controlled-and-banned-items/lithium-batteries.html Calm Air: https://www.calmair.com/travel-info/baggage/dangerous-goods Central Mountain Air: https://www.flycma.com/terms-conditions/#baggage China Southern Airlines: https://www.csair.com/en/tourguide/luggage/dangerous.shtml China Eastern Airlines: https://en.ceair.com/muovc/guide/before_flights/checkin/security_check/checked_baggage/dangerous_goods/ China Airlines: https://www.china-airlines.com/au/en/fly/prepare-for-the-fly/baggage/dangerous-goods-information CommutAir: https://www.united.com/en/us/fly/baggage/dangerous-items.html Delta Airlines:https://www.delta.com/us/en/baggage/prohibited-or-restricted-items/battery-or-fuel-powered Emirates:https://www.emirates.com/english/help/faq-topics/baggage-and-lost-property/ Endeavor Air: https://www.endeavorair.com/travel-information/baggage-information/dangerous-goods/ Etihad Airways: https://www.etihad.com/content/dam/eag/etihadairways/etihadcom/Global/pdf/dangerous-goods-carriage-guide.pdf Finnair: https://www.finnair.com/gb-en/travel-planning/baggage/dangerous-goods Frontier Airlines: https://www.flyfrontier.com/travel-information/baggage/baggage-information/dangerous-goods/ Garuda Indonesia: https://www.garuda-indonesia.com/id/en/garuda-indonesia-experience/on-ground/baggage/index Hawaiian Airlines: https://hawaiianair.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/649/session/L3RpbWUvMTY5NDE1MTQ0Mi9zaWQvaHZ4NVFIZ3E%3D JetBlue: https://www.jetblue.com/help/prohibited-items Jetstar: https://www.jetstar.com/au/en/help/articles/dangerous-goods KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: https://www.klm.com.au/information/baggage/restricted-items-hand-baggage Korean Air: https://www.koreanair.com/footer/customer-support/faq?search=lithium%20&page=1 Lufthansa: https://www.lufthansa.com/us/en/dangerous-goods Malaysia Airlines: https://www.malaysiaairlines.com/au/en/travel-info/baggage.html#battery-powered-mobility-aid Nok Air: https://content.nokair.com/en/Journey-Planning/Baggage/Dangerous-goods.aspx Pacific Coastal Airlines: https://www.pacificcoastal.com/baggage/ Porter Airlines: https://www.flyporter.com/en-ca/travel-information/baggage/restricted-and-prohibited-items Qantas Airways: https://www.qantas.com/au/en/travel-info/baggage/dangerous-goods/battery-powered-devices-and-equipment.html Ryanair: https://help.ryanair.com/hc/en-gb/categories/12502999419409-Permitted-Items-On-Board#What%20items%20are%20permitted%20on%20board? Singapore Airlines:https://www.singaporeair.com/en_UK/au/travel-info/baggage/baggage-restrictions/ SkyWest Airlines: https://www.skywest.com/fly-skywest-airlines/customer-information#!baggage-information Southwest Airlines: https://www.southwest.com/help/baggage/carryon-baggage Spirit Airlines: https://customersupport.spirit.com/en-us/category/article/KA-01144 Sun Country Airlines: suncountry.com/bags-optional-services Swiss International Air Lines: https://www.swiss.com/th/en/prepare/baggage/dangerous-goods Thai Airways: https://www.thaiairways.com/en/travel_information/baggage.page?section=5 Thai Lion Air: https://www.lionairthai.com/en/ThaiLionAir-Experience/Baggage-Allowance Turkish Airlines: https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-int/any-questions/restrictions/ United Airlines: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/baggage/dangerous.html Virgin Atlantic: https://help.virginatlantic.com/gb/en/baggage/dangerous-items.html Virgin Australia: https://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/travel-info/baggage/batteries/ Vueling: https://www.vueling.com/en/vueling-services/prepare-your-trip/luggage Wasaya Airways: https://www.wasaya.com/files/9516/9272/2262/IATA-Passengers_Travelling_with_Lithium_Battery.pdf WestJet: https://channelsolutions.org/wjpassengers/

This is X-Calibre a high performance ROV and underwater drone. Find further information on our marine debris collector here https://downdeepdrones.com/de-litter-bug Check out X-Calibre here https://downdeepdrone.com/de-litter-bug

At Down Deep Drones we have been fortunate to visit Tasmania for the last five months whilst researching, and refining our underwater remotely operated vehicles, and have seen first hand wonderful collaborations between various groups acting for the health of our oceans. The ocean surrounding the beautiful island state of Tasmania, located south of mainland Australia, plays a vital role in the economy and culture of the area, providing a home for a diverse range of marine life and supporting industries such as fishing, tourism, and shipping. However, the ocean is also facing a range of threats, including marine debris, invasive species, and climate change. Fortunately, many groups in Tasmania are working together to protect and preserve the ocean and its inhabitants. These groups include researchers, non-profit organisations, government agencies including local councils, and community activists. They all share a common goal of preserving the natural beauty and diversity of Tasmania's marine environment. IMAS , Institute for Marine and Invasive Species mas.utas.edu.au/imas/contact-us is a world-class research institute that focuses on the sustainable use and management of marine resources. It has a strong focus on understanding and managing the impacts of climate change on the ocean and its ecosystems, and also works on issues such as marine debris, invasive species, and the protection of endangered species. IMAS has a number of research projects underway in these areas, including studies on the impacts of plastic pollution on marine life. TLC, Tasmanian Land Conservancy asland.org.au is a non-profit organisation that works to protect the natural values of Tasmania. The TLC has a strong focus on protecting the marine environment, particularly through its work on coastal conservation. It has established a number of coastal reserves and works with local communities to manage and protect these areas. The TLC also works on issues such as marine debris, with a focus on reducing the amount of plastic waste entering the ocean. PWS, Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service, https://parks.tas.gov.au/ is responsible for the management and protection of Tasmania's national parks, reserves, and other protected areas, including marine reserves. It works to conserve and protect the marine environment, including endangered and threatened species such as the Tasmanian devil. PWS also works on issues such as marine debris, with a focus on educating visitors about the impacts of littering and the importance of keeping the coast and ocean clean. CSIRO Commonwealth Science Industrial and Research Organisation https://www.csiro.au/en/about/locations/state-locations/tas/hobart is Australia's national science agency, and has a strong presence in Tasmania. It works on a range of marine-related issues, including the impacts of climate change, marine biodiversity, and the sustainable use of marine resources. It has a number of research projects underway in Tasmania, including studies on the impacts of ocean acidification on marine life. Image credit Tim Phillips The Marine Conservation Program at the University of Tasmania is focused on the conservation and management of marine ecosystems. It works on a range of issues, including marine debris, invasive species, and the protection of endangered species such as the southern right whale. AMCS works to protect the ocean and its inhabitants through advocacy, campaigning, and education. It has a strong focus on issues such as marine debris and the protection of endangered species, and works with local communities to raise awareness about these issues and advocate for change. TCT works to protect the natural values of Tasmania, including the marine environment. It also has a strong focus on issues such as marine debris, invasive species, and the protection of endangered species, and works with local communities to raise awareness. TCT also runs a range of educational programs aimed at promoting the importance of the marine environment and its conservation. Remotely Operated Vehicles and Marine Conservation Use In terms of the use of ROVs, many of these groups are using these devices to study and monitor the marine environment. For example, MAS has used ROVs to study deep-sea ecosystems and monitor the impacts of climate change on these ecosystems. The CSIRO has also used ROVs to study marine biodiversity and the impacts of climate change on the ocean. These devices are becoming increasingly important tools for marine research, allowing scientists to study and monitor the ocean in ways that were previously impossible. These efforts are critical for the health and sustainability of the ocean and its inhabitants. Fortunately, Tasmania is home to a diverse range of passionate and dedicated individuals and groups working towards these goals. By collaborating and sharing knowledge, they are making significant strides towards protecting the marine environment and ensuring a sustainable future for Tasmania and beyond. Tasmania - Embracing Technology for the Environment Please check in soon to find other blogs on how and where we are discovering technology at use around the globe to benefit our oceans.