LIFE NatuReef is an ambitious initiative aimed at restoring and enhancing marine and coastal habitats through the creation of oyster and Sabellaria reefs.

The project aims to:

Create an oyster reef

LIFE NatuReef will build a submerged reef of native oysters covering around 4,000 square metres, close to and running parallel to the beach. Oyster reefs are prime habitats for a range of marine species and contribute to improved water quality and coastal protection.

Encourage the development of Sabellaria*
Sabellaria are small worms capable of building submerged reefs by aggregating sand. Through small-scale transplants, their growth will be stimulated at the base of the oyster reefs, playing a crucial role in consolidating the structures and increasing biodiversity.

Enhance marine biodiversity
The aim is to increase the number of marine species, including algae, invertebrates and fish, providing an ideal site for the reproduction and protection of juveniles and helping to repopulate the surrounding sea.

Protect coastal habitats
The project offers a nature-based solution for protecting and restoring marine and coastal habitats, creating marine and coastal habitats and communities that are resistant and resilient to climate change.

Support the conservation of protected fauna and flora
By creating a highly biodiverse habitat and protecting the coastline, the protected marine and coastal species found in this haven will be better safeguarded.

Raise public awareness
Educating and raising public awareness of the importance of restoring biogenic reefs as a nature-based solution for coastal defence and marine biodiversity enhancement is the first step towards a paradigm shift: protecting coastlines by restoring natural environments, rather than by building artificial barriers against the sea.