Restoration needs and ecosystem functions

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

GENERAL INFORMATION BESE-elements

Size: 922x455x20 mm

Weight: 0.44 gram/sheet

Biodegradability depends on the environmental conditions, but to give you an idea:

- Type 1: biodegradation in 10 to 20 years.

- Type 2: biodegradation in 2 to 4 years.

The BESE-elements are made from Solanyl and are certified as EN13432 (industrial composting), certified according VINCOTTE OK compost. For more information you can consult the  biodegradability statement.

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