We continue our Flash Interviews with project partners. Today we speak with Elizabeth Nerantzis from ALPHA, whose role focuses on assessing the economic feasibility and social impact of the technological solutions proposed by MAELSTROM for marine litter removal: the Bubble Barrier implemented in Vila do Conde, Portugal, and the Robotic Seabed Cleaning Platform implemented in Venice, Italy. 

Through a detailed Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), ALPHA aims to demonstrate the added value of these solutions compared to traditional marine waste management methods, providing concrete data on costs, social benefits, and environmental advantages. These evaluations have allowed ALPHA to compare the operational and maintenance costs with existing technologies, highlighting the benefits in terms of plastic waste reduction and ecosystem preservation. 

What is ALPHA’s role in the project?

ALPHA plays a key role in assessing the economic and social viability of MAELSTROM’s solutions, leading the work package focused on Economic Feasibility, Social and Economic Impact. This involves conducting a thorough Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), especially for the MAELSTROM cleaning technologies— namely the Bubble Barrier and the Robotic Seabed Cleaning Platform—to highlight the added value of these innovations over existing solutions. Additionally, ALPHA is responsible for developing a roadmap for exploitation, guiding partners in effectively marketing, and commercializing these technologies. Our efforts focus on bridging the gap between innovative research and practical, sustainable applications that can make a real impact in waste management. 

Can you give us a concrete example of your activities within MAELSTROM?

Certainly! One concrete example is our work on the Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) for MAELSTROM’s cleaning technologies—the Bubble Barrier in the Ave River in Portugal and the Robotic Seabed Cleaning Platform in the Venice Lagoon in Italy. Our team evaluates the full range of costs involved, from installation to maintenance and daily operations, and compares these with traditional waste-cleanup methods. For instance, we assess whether the Bubble Barrier offers a cost-effective way to trap riverine plastic waste without disturbing local ecosystems, or if the Robotic Platform can increase the efficiency of seabed cleaning in sensitive areas like the Venice Lagoon. By quantifying not only financial aspects but also social and environmental benefits, such as plastic waste reduction and ecosystem preservation, this CBA offers stakeholders a clear view of the long-term value and feasibility of these technologies. 

What has kept you most engaged during this latest phase of work?

The most engaging aspect of this phase has been seeing MAELSTROM’s technologies in action and collaborating with partners to map out realistic, effective commercialization strategies. It’s inspiring to work on pioneering technologies that directly address marine litter pollution and could help preserve vulnerable ecosystems such as the Ave River and the Venice Lagoon. Being able to contribute to a project that combines economic viability with environmental sustainability—and has real potential to tackle the marine litter pollution issue and transform waste management across Europe—continues to energize our team each day.