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A new autonomous system designed to locate and remove marine debris was demonstrated in Larnaca as part of the European research initiative SeaClear2.0. The presentation took place during an event hosted by the Cypriot environmental consultancy ISOTECH Ltd, with support from the Cyprus Ports Authority.
The demonstration marked the project’s second pilot test, held on 27 November 2025 at Larnaca Port. Researchers showcased a coordinated fleet of robotic platforms built to carry out on-site mapping, detection, classification, and collection of waste from both the seafloor and the water’s surface.
The SeaClear2.0 system combines several types of unmanned technologies, surface vessels (USVs), underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and an aerial drone (UAV). Guided by artificial intelligence, these robots perform most tasks autonomously, reducing the need for human intervention. The approach is intended to offer a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional marine clean-up methods and to minimize disruption to the surrounding environment.
In addition to demonstrating debris removal, some components of the system showcased potential uses beyond environmental cleanup. These included inspecting underwater infrastructure and monitoring environmental conditions, applications that could be valuable for industry and coastal management.
Attendees had the chance to observe the AI-driven identification and classification tools, discuss the system’s capabilities with the project’s scientific team, and explore possibilities for collaboration. Conversations also focused on local challenges related to marine litter in Cyprus and on practical strategies tailored to regional conditions.
As part of the event, ISOTECH organized a participatory workshop titled “Defining Solutions and Policy Actions for Addressing Marine Litter in Larnaca.” The session brought together representatives from academia, environmental organizations, and the private sector to share experiences and propose improvements to waste-management practices in the area, drawing on ISOTECH’s involvement in European marine-litter policy initiatives.
