Belfast Harbour has installed the UK’s first marina Aquapod, introducing a new system that collects floating litter, natural debris and microplastics at the waterline. Developed by Northern Ireland company NETZERO Alchemists, the technology has been added to support water quality and environmental management at the marina.
Positioned below the waterline, the Aquapod draws in floating material before it is emptied at regular intervals, reducing the need for manual clean-up on the water. The installation also includes Clean Impact View software, used to record the type and volume of material collected over time and helps prevent wildlife from entering the device.
Simon Gibson, Marine, Environment & Biodiversity officer at Belfast Harbour, stated: “We’re proud to be the first marina in the UK to introduce the Aquapod system and hope Belfast Harbour can act as a benchmark for how practical innovation can support with improving water quality and creating better environments.”
Gibson said the marina is one of the most visible areas within Belfast Harbour and highlighted its importance for waterfront visitors and those arriving by leisure craft. He added that the harbour will assess the Aquapod’s impact and explore other technologies to further improve the marina.
Alan Branagh of NETZERO Alchemists said: “People trust clean spaces, and Belfast Harbour has recognised that maintaining visible standards in a working harbour environment requires continuous intervention, not just occasional response. The Aquapod allows that work to happen quietly, automatically and consistently at the waterline every day.”
Branagh added: “This installation represents more than the introduction of new technology. It demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship by combining practical action with innovation, helping to protect the marina today while building the evidence needed to support more informed environmental management in the future.”
The Aquapod supports Belfast Harbour Marina’s Blue Flag accreditation and adds to its wider environmental initiatives, including an oyster restoration programme in partnership with Ulster Wildlife and the Blue Flag Environmental Code of Conduct.
