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Enhancing marine life and mitigating coastal erosion with stone reefs

Assessing nature-based solutions to mitigate biodiversity impacts from offshore wind requires a broad perspective that extends beyond the wind farm. Areas outside the operational zone offer opportunities for more effective and beneficial biodiversity interventions.

Biodiversity monitoring by DTU Aqua is expected to take place in May 2026, approximately one year after the construction of the reef. The collected video data will be compared with the baseline data collected in 2023. This comparison will assess any developments in terms of abundance and diversity of marine species following the reef construction.

Short facts

Island of Samsø, Denmark
Marine fauna and flora, coastal ecosystems
Investigate coastal stone reefs as a solution for coastal erosion and to support marine life.
2021–2028

To assess the potential of nature-based solutions, Vattenfall is actively following and co-funding with Velux Foundation, the BARREEF project, led by the National Institute of Aquatic Resources at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua).

Construction of a stone reef. Photo: Jon C. Svendsen

A pilot on Samsø Island, Denmark, will test whether a stone reef deployed in 2025 can provide coastal protection while creating habitats for marine life. Coastal erosion is an increasingly important societal challenge, and traditional methods like beach nourishment can damage coastal ecosystems and exacerbate climate impacts.

In contrast, deploying coastal stone reefs has the potential to absorb wave energy, while also benefitting marine biodiversity. The project also involves discussions with local stakeholders and authorities to minimise harmful practices and improve climate resilience.

More about biodiversity

Biodiversity and nature protection are a priority at Vattenfall. It is one of the focus areas in our environmental policy and therefore also a central part in our environmental work.