Marine category winner – MarineFlex
| MarineFlex is an elasticated mooring and anchoring system that protects the seabed and is an alternative to the damaging chains used in conventional moorings.It is one of several products developed by Mike and Donna Baker that reduce the impact on the marine environment of structures such as marine farms, jetties, and block and chain moorings.Traditional moorings use a concrete block with chain attached to keep the boat or structure in place. The chain sweeps across the seabed, slackening or tightening depending on wind, waves and currents, damaging marine habitat and organisms. Marine Flex provides a solution to this ― the rubber cables do not come into contact with the seafloor. They are attached to a specially designed screw anchor that penetrates the seabed with less disturbance and greater holding capacity than conventional systems.Judges were impressed by the strong and effective partnership between husband and wife team Mike and Donna, and the high level of persistence and problem-solving across the operation. This is accompanied by extensive research, development and testing of their products, and a genuine commitment to looking after the marine environment. You can watch a short video about this innovative approach to moorings and their impact on the seabed here. |