Waste gobbling sharks on trial in Plymouth

Remote operated ‘waste sharks’, which collect rubbish from the surface of the water are being trialled off the south Devon coast.

WasteSharks have been introduced as part of Plymouth’s Preventing Plastic Pollution project and are being tested first in Turnchapel, before operating in the wider Cattewater.

Developed by RanMarine Technology, the remote operated vehicles (ROVs) survey the surface of the sea, gathering up litter and helping to keep the natural environment clean. As it navigates the water, the WasteShark emits no carbon, produces no noise or light pollution, and poses no threat to wildlife.

The WasteShark can capture up to 500kg of plastics, microplastics, oils and other pollutants in a single outing lasting up to six hours and covering over 5km. According to the WWF, if it’s used five days a week the WasteShark can collect in excess of 15 tonnes of waste a year, with the plastic recycled to make products.

Working in collaboration with Plymouth-based robotics and artificial intelligence specialists MSubs and Marine AI, the project will look at adapting and enhancing the technology of the basic WasteSharks.

The University of Plymouth will bring its marine plastic pollution expertise to this project and will help to collect and analyse the waste gathered up by the WasteSharks.

Babcock International, which is a member of Britain’s Ocean City: Plastic Task Force, has also purchased a WasteShark which will be helping to collect plastic waste from waters around the dockyard where its Devonport facilities are located.

The Cattewater Harbour Commissioners, which has agreed to trial the project in its waters, is keen to work with on the education and awareness programme involving local schools and communities. Ideas for engagement include naming and painting competitions to helping with programming and trialling the sharks in the water using the new automation ROV technology.

All partners involved in the various WasteShark projects are working together to share knowledge, experience and expertise to help cut plastic pollution and positively contribute to the Climate Emergency Action Plan for Plymouth.