Andalusian Coast to Get High-Tech Water Sensors
The Andalusian coastal oceanographic stations network (REOLA) is set to incorporate a series of water temperature and wave sensors. These will be installed on five beaches along the western Costa del Sol. The beaches selected for this project are Sabinillas in Manilva, Rada in Estepona, Guadalmina in Marbella, Calahonda in Mijas Costa, and Arroyo de la Miel in Benalmádena. The project is being spearheaded by the Junta de Andalucía.
Project Aims to Enhance Environmental Data Collection
The primary objective of this project is to establish a marine sensor network along the coastline. This network will gather data on coastal temperature and wave patterns. The collected data will then be integrated into the environmental information base generated by other remote sensing systems developed in the project.
Impact on Ecosystem Management and Mollusc Production
The data collected will aid in the development of operational hydrodynamic models. These models will simulate the impact of pollutants in mollusc harvesting areas on diversity and ecosystem services. Additionally, the data will be used to develop artificial intelligence systems for decision-making on ecosystem management and prediction of toxins in mollusc production areas. This was stated by Manuel Cardeña, the president of the Costa del Sol Mancomunidad association of town halls.
Installation Timeline and Budget
The installation of the sensors will commence after the contract is signed in May 2024. The project is expected to be fully operational by 1 June, with removal beginning in October, as per Cardeña. The investment for this year is projected to be 1.1 million euros. The budget also includes provisions for buoys to mark the areas, 20 areas for motor boats, seven for non-motorised boats, and two marked channels for swimming in Marbella.
Additional Recreational Facilities
The plan also includes the addition of floating platforms, jet ski circuits, and water parks in Benalmádena, Mijas Estepona, Fuengirola, Marbella, and Manilva. These recreational facilities are expected to enhance the overall beach experience for visitors.
