Sustainable Smart Marine Grid (SSMG) - Solar-powered base stations for continuous underwater surveying and trash cleaning
Sustainable Smart Marine Grid (SSMG) - Solar-powered base stations for continuous underwater surveying and trash cleaning
The Sustainable Smart Marine Grid (SSMG) project is a unique initiative that combines continuous underwater surveying, trash cleaning, and data collection. Our team helps study the local marine ecosystem and actively contributes to its conservation by removing marine debris, supporting the monitoring of aquatic ecosystem health.
The use of underwater robots for data collection, including CO2 levels, makes this project a valuable resource for a wide range of stakeholders, from the public and students to researchers, industry professionals, and government officials. We regularly stream video on various platforms, such as the SSC Hub digital wall and a dedicated website, to showcase cleanup efforts and raise awareness about environmental conservation. With a focus on promoting sustainability and smart campus initiatives, this initiative has the potential to expand beyond HKUST and serve as a launchpad for larger-scale marine surveying efforts in Hong Kong.
What is the problem this project is trying to address?
We recognize the need for ongoing, reliable data on aquatic ecosystem health. This project addresses the need to continuously monitor and conserve the marine environment near the HKUST campus. The problem involves marine pollution and the need for comprehensive data on the local marine ecosystem. By deploying a sustainable approach that combines regular surveying, trash removal, and data collection, we aim to tackle these issues, raise awareness about marine pollution, showcase the effects of cleanup efforts, and provide valuable environmental data to various stakeholders. Additionally, this project also aims to serve as a test case for larger-scale marine surveying initiatives in Hong Kong, extending beyond the immediate campus seafront.
How does this project support our sustainable smart campus as a living lab vision?
SSMG supports our sustainable smart campus as a living lab vision by providing a novel and sustainable approach to navigating, cleaning, and studying our oceans. We can effectively mitigate underwater trash and enhance our understanding of the marine environment by developing a system that utilizes PV-powered stations, unmanned surface and underwater vehicles, and advanced algorithms. The project aligns with the goals of building a Smart, Green, and Resilient city, as outlined in the "Hong Kong 2030+" planning vision. We promote environmental conservation, raise public awareness about marine pollution, and fulfill our educational responsibilities. The technology and knowledge gained from this project can also be applied to larger regions, further contributing to sustainable development efforts.
What's next?
The future of the project holds several exciting possibilities. We are committed to institutionalizing SSMG as a long-term aquatic monitoring platform. We plan to ensure the system's sustainability by leveraging solar power and seeking additional grants or support from the University and government for maintenance costs. We target demonstrating the system to the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department (AFCD) and exploring potential testing sites beyond HKUST water areas.
We will be collaborating with the annual Reef Check initiative in Hong Kong to enhance data collection and provide a more reliable and extensive data series. The team also plans to deploy the system in the HKUST Guangzhou campus, particularly along the river, to expand the reach and impact of the project.
The project will serve as a springboard for future education and research programs, such as 3D reconstruction and creating a 'Digital Twin' of the marine environment. The collected data will enrich our HKUST marine research database and support ongoing studies on corals and general marine understanding.