Marine Research Hub Presents Environmental Solutions

The Marine Research Hub (MRH) hosted the fifth annual Summit during the 63rd Annual Fort Lauderdale Boat Show (FLIBS), sharing marine research and solutions with emerging commercialization potential. The Summit hosted more than 60 community members including potential investors, educators, and industry leaders.

Three guest speakers shared innovative research and solutions including: Water Warriors; Kintra Fibers; and Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Aquaculture.

Water Warriors, Inc., co-founder & CEO, Steve Chamberland, shared the innovative technology of Poseidon Pellets that absorb phosphorus on contact, preventing algae blooms and loss of marine life by controlling the flow of nutrients. Water flows through the pellets traps the phosphorus, which then can be returned to the land as a fertilizer. The application of the pellets in Florida includes outflow: canals, wastewater, and agriculture flow to stop nutrients from reaching our coastal oceans.

Kintra Fibers, Inc. Alissa Baier-Lentz, COO and co-founder, shared a new polyester that is bio-based, biodegradable, and compatible with standard manufacturing equipment. The material addresses the microfiber pollution and textile waste while delivering performance and price. Changing the use of traditional polyester which is fossil-fuel based and responsible for microplastic pollution in the oceans will have a positive impact on the environment and human health.

Dr. Jim Materson, Florida Atlantic University (FAU), shared the innovative aquaculture research and products at the university. Part of the FAU innovation in aquaculture is the Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), which cycles the whole system with no waste.

Two of the three presenters took part in Ocean Exchange 2022, held in Fort Lauderdale, October 23 to 25. The Ocean Exchange event is a pitch competition for solutions with working prototypes that reduce waste and the use of nature’s resources while increasing productivity and respecting cultures around the world. MRH is one of the sponsors for the three cash awards totaling $300,000 along with a collegiate level award of up to $25,000.