AlgaeRevive Deploys Advanced Research Buoy in the Black Sea Port of Poti

Poti, Georgia | 11–14 December 2025

Within the framework of the EU-funded project AlgaeRevive – “Harnessing Algae Power for Eutrophication Reduction and Blue Growth ‘Blue Strategy’” (BSB00091), the Tsotne Mirtskhulava Water Management Institute at Georgian Technical University successfully purchased, installed, and deployed a modern research buoy in the waters of the Black Sea, within the Sea Port of Poti.The platform brings together research institutions, universities, public authorities and industry partners from Bulgaria, Romania, Greece, Georgia and Ukraine. It serves as a shared digital space for accessing scientific data, exchanging knowledge, and promoting collaboration related to algae, marine ecosystems and environmental protection.

Advanced monitoring technology in real conditions

The deployed buoy is designed for long-term environmental monitoring in marine conditions. As visible from the field deployment activities, the buoy is equipped with:

• a solar panel for autonomous power supply
• a navigation beacon for visibility and safety
• six automated electronic research sensors for continuous data collection

The installation involved on-site preparation, sensor setup, secure anchoring, and careful deployment from a working vessel in the port area. The photos document the full process—from technical checks on land to deployment at sea—highlighting the practical, hands-on nature of the scientific work.

What the research will measure

The primary goal of this scientific deployment is to collect high-quality, real-time environmental data to better understand the conditions that influence algal growth and ecosystem health in Georgian Black Sea waters. The monitoring system will focus on key ecological parameters, including:

• water acidity (pH)
• salinity
• dissolved oxygen levels
• oil pollution indicators
• presence of heavy metals and other pollutants

These parameters are essential for assessing eutrophication processes, identifying environmental pressures, and evaluating the potential of algae-based solutions for pollution reduction.

Supporting science-based Blue Strategy

By combining modern monitoring technology with field-based scientific expertise, this deployment directly supports the Blue Strategy promoted by the AlgaeRevive project. The collected data will contribute to:

• improved understanding of Black Sea coastal ecosystems
• evidence-based environmental management and policy development
• development of sustainable, algae-based approaches to pollution reduction and Blue Growth

A step forward for regional cooperation and innovation

The successful deployment in Poti marks an important milestone for AlgaeRevive, demonstrating how international cooperation, advanced technology, and local scientific capacity can work together to support healthier aquatic ecosystems in the Black Sea region.

Further results and data insights from the buoy monitoring activities will be shared as the project progresses. Stay tuned!