Electro Mineral Accretion (EMA)
Reefs for Life is using EMA technology to restore damaged coral reefs back to health. EMA is the only restoration method known that produces the natural limestone which corals need to grow on. It also accelerates coral growth, healing, and resistance to stress due to anthropogenic factors and climate change. A safe, low voltage, electric current is applied which flows through the metal frame. The electric field causes minerals in seawater to precipitate and adhere to the metallic frame. The result of this process is a build up of calcium carbonate on the steel frame and the creation of a favorable environment for attached coral. Hydrogen bubbles can be seen rising from the structures as the process works.
Benefits to using EMA:
4x-8x faster growth rates for a variety of coral species with more color and branching.
Coral is up to 50 times more resistant to disease
Increased resistance to warming sea temperatures and other anthropogenic effects
The calcium carbonate produced is an ideal substrate for coral settlement
No need for heavy equipment to install, since the steel frame is lightweight
The structures can "heal" themselves after damage from storms
How it works:
Structures made of ordinary construction steel are created in just about any shape. The structures are placed at the restoration site, and the anode material is placed near the steel. Low voltage current is applied to the system, and the mineral accretion process starts almost immediately. Coral fragments are collected and attached to the steel frames. The system can be re-used to create other reefs in other locations, or added on to as the system remains in place.
Sustainability:
Coral Reef Restoration only becomes sustainable if the people that live near them understand the importance of coral reefs and provide care and protection for them. Coastal communities can easily create their own EMA structures, giving them ownership of the coral reefs they are restoring and protecting. Reefs for Life works along side community leaders to help start social enterprises - businesses that allow people to earn money and at the same time help the environment. Our education programs empower the people with the knowledge to manage their natural resources in sustainable ways.