By Vic Grosjean
Rotary-UN Young Innovator Award Recipient
New technologies are helping address increasing threats to the Great Barrier Reef – the world’s largest coral reef, with 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of fish, 4,000 types of molluscs and more than
30 species of marine mammals.
The Great Barrier Reef, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, faces increasing threats from climate change, plastic pollution and industrial runoff.
To protect this natural wonder, scientists and engineers are developing and testing cutting-edge marine technologies to monitor and mitigate environmental damage. These innovations provide crucial data to track the impacts of global warming, pollution and human activities – helping guide conservation efforts and policy decisions.
Rotary members can play a pivotal role in supporting these initiatives, advocating for the environment and taking direct action to safeguard our oceans for future generations.
Technology for environmental monitoring
For the past two decades, I have worked as an engineer and oceanographer, testing novel marine technologies to better understand and address the impacts of climate change on our oceans. Conducting trials on the Great Barrier Reef has given me first-hand experience of how these advancements can revolutionise environmental monitoring.
PICTURED: Rotary-UN Young Innovator Award Recipient Vic Grosjean is developing and testing cutting-edge marine technologies to monitor and mitigate environmental damage on the Great Barrier Reef.
Cyclone impact monitoring
With our weather patterns intensifying, cyclones are becoming more frequent and severe. Advanced underwater sensors and uncrewed marine vehicles can track changes in coral health and seabed conditions, providing data to predict recovery patterns and guide conservation efforts.
I had the rare opportunity to observe a cyclone in real time from the other side of the country – thanks to a dedicated testing area I had equipped with dozens of buoys and underwater sensors. This technology enables us to monitor extreme weather events without endangering human lives.
Microplastic detection
Plastic pollution is a major threat to marine ecosystems. I recently tested innovative microplastic pumps along the Great Barrier Reef coastline to detect and quantify plastic particles in seawater. These technologies help assess pollution levels, inform policy changes and support plastic reduction efforts
Agricultural runoff monitoring
Fertilisers and pesticides from farming contribute to high nitrate and turbidity levels in coastal waters, leading to algal blooms that suffocate marine life.
By deploying multi-parameter sensors in strategic locations, I have helped measure the water quality, including the turbidity of the water.
This data can drive better farming practices and water management policies to reduce harmful runoff.
Marine mammal conservation and offshore wind farms
Renewable energy is essential to increasing climate resilience, but offshore wind farms must be developed responsibly.
Acoustic sensors I have trialled are helping monitor the impact of underwater noise on whales and dolphins, ensuring that clean energy solutions do not disrupt marine ecosystems.
How Rotarians can make a difference
Rotarians have a unique opportunity to support marine conservation efforts and promote environmental stewardship. Here’s how Rotary clubs and members can take action today:
- Plant and restore mangroves: Mangroves serve as fish nurseries, protect coastlines from erosion and absorb carbon dioxide. Organising tree-planting initiatives in vulnerable areas can significantly boost biodiversity and climate resilience.
- Educate communities: Awareness is key to conservation. Hosting talks, workshops and educational programs about mangroves, coral reefs and sustainable fishing can inspire local action.
- Reduce plastic pollution: Cleanups help, but prevention is even more effective. Support bans on single-use plastics, advocate for better recycling programs and promote reusable alternatives.
- Engage in policy advocacy: Partner with governments and environmental groups such as the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) to drive meaningful policy changes. Supporting regulations on pollutants, reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy is critical.
- Support innovative projects: Rotary clubs can fund and participate in conservation initiatives through global grants or collaborate with ESRAG on environmental projects such as mangrove restoration and ocean protection.
Leaving a legacy for future generations
As Rotarians, we have a duty to serve not only our communities but also our planet. By championing marine conservation and supporting the development of novel technologies, we can help preserve the Great Barrier Reef and other marine ecosystems worldwide.
Every action – big or small – contributes to a future where oceans thrive, communities prosper and the natural world remains a source of wonder.
Together, let’s take a stand for our oceans. What will your Rotary club do today to protect our blue planet for generations to come?
For more information, visit OceanInnovators.org