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--- report:sus [2026/04/14 16:03] – [5.2 Environmental] team4
+++ report:sus [2026/04/30 12:07] (current) – [5.4 Social] team4
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 ==== 5.2 Environmental  ===
-This section considers the environmental impact of the project using principles inspired by the butterfly diagram, a model that represents circular material flows. The model distinguishes between biological processes, where materials safely integrate into natural systems, and technical processes, where products are maintained, reused, and recycled to extend their lifespan. (See Figure {{ref>fig:Butterfly}}).
+This section considers the environmental impact of the project using principles inspired by the butterfly diagram, a model that represents circular material flows [(ellenmacarthur_butterfly_diagram)]. The model distinguishes between biological processes, where materials safely integrate into natural systems, and technical processes, where products are maintained, reused, and recycled to extend their lifespan (See Figure {{ref>fig:Butterfly}}).
-The MARIS HABITATS concept reflects these principles by combining long-term environmental integration with efficient use of technical components. From a biological perspective, the habitat is designed to function as part of the marine ecosystem over time. The use of non-toxic and durable materials allows marine organisms such as algae and microorganisms to attach and grow on the structure, gradually transforming it into an artificial reef. In this way, the structure contributes positively to biodiversity rather than becoming waste.
-From a technical perspective, the system is designed with longevity and adaptability in mind. The structure itself is intended to remain in the environment for long periods, while the electronic components are treated as separate elements. Sensors and electronic modules can be replaced, upgraded, or removed without disturbing the entire habitat, which reduces material waste and extends the usability of the system.
-Maintenance is minimized through the selection of robust materials that can withstand harsh marine conditions. However, when intervention is required, the modular design allows specific components to be handled individually. This approach reduces unnecessary replacement and supports more efficient resource use.
-The project also considers the potential for reuse and recovery of electronic components. Once the habitat has reached a stable ecological state, parts of the monitoring system can be redeployed in new installations. This reduces both environmental impact and overall system cost.
-Recycling is addressed through the selection of materials that either have recycled content or can be processed at the end of their technical life. Although the structure is intended to remain in the environment, the design avoids materials that could cause long-term harm.
 <WRAP centeralign>
 <figure fig:Butterfly>
-{{ :report:butterfly_diagram_infographic.web600|}}
+{{ :report:butterfly_diagram_infographic.webp |}}
 <caption>Butterfly diagram [(ellenmacarthur_butterfly_diagram)]</caption>
 </figure>
 </WRAP>
+The MARIS HABITATS concept reflects these principles by combining long-term environmental integration with efficient use of technical components. From a biological perspective, the habitat is designed to support marine colonization over time. The use of non-toxic and durable materials allows algae, microorganisms, and small marine species to attach and grow on the structure, contributing to biodiversity enhancement [(DIPNDIVE)] .
+From a technical perspective, the system is designed with longevity and adaptability in mind. The modular concrete habitat structure is intended to remain underwater for long periods, while the electronic components are housed in a detachable waterproof enclosure attached to the habitat. This enclosure contains the battery, microcontroller, and data storage system. Sensor probes are mounted through the enclosure and remain exposed to seawater to measure environmental conditions such as pH, conductivity, pressure, and temperature. This modular design allows maintenance or replacement of electronic components without removing the entire habitat structure.
+Maintenance requirements are reduced through the use of durable materials that can withstand harsh marine conditions. When maintenance is required, divers can retrieve stored data and replace batteries without disturbing the reef structure. This reduces unnecessary material replacement and extends the operational life of the system.
+The project also considers the reuse of technical components. If monitoring is no longer required, electronic components such as sensors, batteries, and storage devices can be removed and reused in future installations.
+For the prototype, conventional concrete may be used to reduce costs, while the final design uses basalt fiber-reinforced concrete to improve durability and corrosion resistance in marine environments. This approach reduces environmental impact while maintaining long-term functionality.
 ==== 5.3 Economical ====
-The economic aspect of MARIS HABITATS is mainly related to the long-term benefits that can be created through ecosystem restoration and its integration with existing marine infrastructure. By improving marine biodiversity and supporting the growth of fish populations, the system can help increase fishery productivity over time. This can bring direct economic benefits to local communities that depend on fishing as a source of income and food.
+The economic aspect of MARIS HABITATS is mainly related to the long-term benefits created through ecosystem restoration and its integration with existing marine infrastructure. By improving marine biodiversity and supporting fish population growth, the system may help increase fishery productivity over time. This can create economic benefits for coastal communities that depend on fishing as a source of income and food.
-In addition, previous studies have shown that artificial reefs can increase fish biomass and support the development of fisheries, which can lead to economic improvements in coastal areas [(Artificial reef preparation)]. This means that the impact of the project is not limited to the fishing sector, but can also extend to other activities such as tourism and marine-related services.
+Previous studies have shown that artificial reefs can increase fish biomass and support the development of fisheries, which can lead to economic improvements in coastal areas [(Artificial reef preparation)]. In this project, this idea is applied through habitat structures that provide shelter and breeding areas for marine species.
-Another important point is that the system can be used together with existing structures, such as offshore wind farms or coastal protection systems. Instead of building completely new infrastructure, this approach makes it possible to use what already exists and add ecological functions to it. In this way, resources can be used more efficiently while still achieving environmental benefits.
+The system is also designed to be integrated with existing marine infrastructure, such as offshore wind farms or coastal protection systems. This approach reduces the need for completely new structures and allows existing installations to gain additional ecological functions, improving resource efficiency.
-The use of sensors also adds an extra layer of value to the project. The data collected from the system can be useful for research, environmental monitoring, and decision-making processes. Over time, this can help improve how marine resources are managed and may reduce costs caused by inefficient management.
+The integration of sensors adds another layer of economic value. The system collects environmental data that can be used for research, monitoring, and decision-making. In this project, this data supports more efficient marine resource management and may help reduce costs related to ineffective environmental monitoring.
-A further advantage of the project is its modular and scalable design. Since the habitat units can be deployed gradually and adapted to different marine environments, the system does not require full-scale investment at the initial stage. This makes pilot implementation more realistic and allows costs to be spread over time.
+Another important aspect is the modular and scalable design of the system. Habitat units can be deployed gradually and adapted to different marine environments, reducing the need for large initial investments. This allows pilot projects to be tested before full-scale deployment.
-The modular monitoring system can also help reduce maintenance and operational costs. Instead of replacing the entire structure when technical issues occur, only specific components need to be repaired, upgraded, or replaced. This makes maintenance more practical and helps avoid unnecessary replacement.
+The modular monitoring system also helps reduce maintenance costs. Instead of replacing the entire structure in case of failure, only specific electronic components need to be repaired or replaced. This improves operational efficiency and reduces long-term costs.
-In addition, the project may benefit from collaboration with public institutions, research organizations, and environmental programs. As marine restoration and biodiversity protection are becoming more important in sustainability policies, the project may be supported through grants, pilot funding, or public-private partnerships. This could improve the feasibility of both initial deployment and future expansion.
+In addition, the project can benefit from collaboration with public institutions, research organizations, and environmental programs. Marine restoration and biodiversity protection are increasingly supported by sustainability policies and funding initiatives [(DEUTZ2020)]. This creates opportunities for financial support through grants and public-private partnerships.
-Even though the initial investment may be relatively high, the expected benefits are likely to outweigh these costs over time. These benefits include improved ecosystem services, increased fish production, and better protection of coastal areas. For these reasons, MARIS HABITATS can be considered not only environmentally sustainable, but also economically viable in the long run.
+Although the initial investment may be relatively high, the project can create long-term value through ecosystem restoration, fishery support, and improved coastal protection [(COSNTANZA2014)]. For this reason, MARIS HABITATS can be considered both environmentally sustainable and economically viable in the long term.
 ==== 5.4 Social ====
-The project contributes to social sustainability by supporting marine ecosystems that are vital to the livelihoods and well-being of coastal communities. Healthier fish populations can enhance food security, strengthen local economies, and promote sustainable fishing practices.
-The integration of environmental sensors facilitates the collection of valuable data that can be used for research, education, and public awareness. This supports knowledge sharing and fosters innovation within marine science and environmental management.
-The project aligns with the principles of inclusive and collaborative development, particularly in relation to Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) [(un_sdg17)]. Promoting cooperation between governments, research institutions, local communities, and environmental organizations, the project fosters a collaborative approach that strengthens shared responsibility and encourages collective action. The active involvement of local stakeholders in the planning, implementation, and monitoring processes enhances transparency, builds trust, and ensures that the project reflects community needs and values. Such participatory practices are essential for achieving long-term social acceptance and sustainability.
+The integration of environmental sensors also creates social value by generating data that can be used by research institutions and environmental organizations for marine monitoring and scientific research. This can improve understanding of marine ecosystems and support better environmental decision-making.
+The project is also aligned with the market strategy by focusing on partnerships with offshore wind farms, coastal authorities, research institutions, and environmental organizations [(un_sdg17)]. By integrating artificial habitats into existing marine infrastructure, the project promotes collaboration between technical and environmental stakeholders while reducing the need for additional construction.
+In the long term, this approach can support sustainable fisheries, marine conservation efforts, and stronger cooperation between industries involved in ocean management.
 ==== 5.5 Life Cycle Analysis ====
-The life cycle of the project is considered from material selection to end-of-life, with the aim of minimizing environmental impact while ensuring long-term functionality and sustainability.
+The life cycle of the project is considered from material selection to end-of-life, with the aim of reducing environmental impact while maintaining long-term functionality.
-In the material phase, the project prioritizes environmentally responsible and durable materials. The selected solution is based on basalt fiber-reinforced concrete. Basalt fibers are derived from natural volcanic rock and are described as non-corrosive and chemically stable in saline environments. This makes them suitable for marine applications where long-term durability is required. Electronic components, including ESP32-based sensors, are evaluated in terms of energy efficiency, reliability, and lifespan.
+In this project, the material phase focuses on choosing durable and environmentally responsible materials. The final design uses basalt fiber-reinforced concrete. Basalt fibers are made from natural volcanic rock and are known for their resistance to corrosion and chemical stability in seawater, which makes them suitable for marine environments [(FIORE2015)]. Electronic components, including the microcontroller, were also selected based on energy efficiency, reliability, and expected lifespan.
-During the manufacturing phase, the habitat structure is built and the sensor system is integrated while aiming to reduce energy consumption and resource use. Efficient production methods are emphasized to lower the overall environmental footprint.
+During the manufacturing phase, the reef structure is produced through concrete casting, while the monitoring system is assembled separately as a detachable smart block. This smart block contains the battery, microcontroller, SD card, and sensors. Keeping the electronic components separate helps avoid embedding electronics directly into the permanent structure and reduces unnecessary material waste.
-The testing phase involves validating both the structural performance of the habitat and the functionality of the sensor system. Special attention is given to energy efficiency, long battery life, and reliable data collection, which helps reduce the need for maintenance.
+The testing phase focuses on checking both the structural performance of the habitat and the operation of the monitoring system. Special attention is given to battery life, waterproof protection, sensor accuracy, and reliable data collection because these factors affect maintenance needs.
-The design also considers structural resilience and long-term environmental integration. The habitat is intentionally designed with varied shapes and surface features to support marine colonization and ecological functionality. This ensures that the habitat continues to function even if parts of the structure degrade over time.
+The structure is also designed for long-term use in marine environments. Its geometry includes cavities and irregular surfaces that help algae, microorganisms, and small marine species attach to the structure over time.
-The monitoring system is separated from the main structure through a modular component that contains all sensors. This unit can be retrieved for maintenance, data collection, or replacement without disturbing the habitat. By isolating electronic components from the permanent structure, the design reduces the risk of long-term pollution.
+To reduce environmental risks, the smart block can be removed for maintenance, battery replacement, data collection, or repairs without disturbing the main reef structure. Separating the electronic components from the permanent habitat also helps reduce the risk of long-term marine pollution.
-At the end-of-life stage, the structure is intended to remain in the marine environment and gradually integrate into the ecosystem, functioning as an artificial reef. Instead of becoming waste, the structure contributes positively to biodiversity. Electronic components can be removed, reused, or redeployed in new systems, supporting more efficient use of resources.
+At the end of its life cycle, the structure is intended to remain in the marine environment and continue functioning as an artificial reef that supports biodiversity [(SELLA2015)]. Electronic components can be removed and reused in future systems, which helps reduce waste.
 ==== 5.6 Summary ====
 This chapter has examined the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of the project, together with a lifecycle perspective, in order to evaluate its overall sustainability. The analysis highlights the importance of minimizing environmental impact while ensuring long-term functionality, economic viability, and social value.