Ecosystem restoration with BESE-elements®

Biodegradable Ecosystem Engineering Elements are 3D structures made out of potato starch.

BESE-elements are used for habitat improvement and serve as a starting point for ecosystem restoration.

Restoration needs and ecosystem functions

Wetlands, mangroves, salt marshes and shellfish reefs are productive ecosystems that can provide invaluable ecological services. However, all these ecosystems are threatened, suffering from anthropogenic activities. Damaged ecosystems often lack the following: 3D structures for attachment, reduction of local currents and waves, shelter and protection from predators and stability.

Application of BESE-elements®

BESE-elements® present a starting point: a temporary structure and protection for organisms, facilitating their establishment. After establishment, the ecosystem provides a structure on its own and during the process the BESE-elements® break down. The potential uses for this starch-based three-dimensional structure are almost endless. We are just starting to uncover the possibilities of the diverse range of applications, which include:

- Ecosystem restoration (e.g. shellfish reefs, mangroves, sea grass, salt marshes, wetlands)
- Coastal and bank-side protection
- Water purification, sewage treatment
- Habitat creation (i.e. fish, shellfish habitat)
- Aquaculture