Izmit Gulf mud to be transformed into ceramic artificial reefs

A new ecological project titled ‘Edge Effect’ aims to transform difficult-to-dispose bottom mud from the Izmit Gulf into ceramic artificial reefs to support marine life. This initiative, which is considered a world first for returning extracted mud to the seabed, will see eight ceramic artists from across Turkey create works using the mud.

Scheduled for deployment on September 19, the reefs will be placed at depths of 8, 13, and 16 meters using an underwater parachute system. The project is a collaborative effort involving Kocaeli University, Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality, the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, and the Değirmendere Underwater Community (DESSAT).

Divers will scientifically monitor the reefs for one year to track how marine organisms attach to and inhabit the structures. If successful, the application may be expanded to other suitable areas throughout the country. The project also includes artistic installations at two river mouths to capture waste flowing from the city into the sea.