Port of San Diego and ECOncrete Win Prestigious Climate Leadership Award
Contact: Gabriella Rodriguez, 619.904.2137, grodriguez@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego and ECOncrete have been honored by The Climate Registry (TCR) with the Innovative Partnership Award in the 2024 Climate Leadership Awards. The prestigious accolade recognizes exemplary leadership in reducing carbon pollution and addressing climate change through innovative solutions and sustainable practices.
Supported by the Port’s Blue Economy Incubator, ECOncrete deployed an interlocking tidal pool system it calls COASTALOCK along San Diego Bay’s Harbor Island. The system is made up of concrete mix that incorporates bio-enhancing additives to promote marine biodiversity and reduce the carbon footprint of marine infrastructure projects. Since deployment, the tidal pool units have become home to a wide variety of sea life including shellfish (oyster and mussels), sea hares, nudibranch, coralline algae, sea stars, acorn barnacles, sea anemones, lobsters, crabs, and even great blue heron.
"We are deeply honored to receive this esteemed award for our ECOncrete partnership," said Chairman Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. "The ECOncrete project embodies our dedication to implementing innovative solutions that mitigate climate change impacts while fostering the growth of our blue economy."
"The healthy ecosystem developing on the COASTALOCK revetment at the Port of San Diego is the most powerful testimony for the Port and ECOncrete's successful partnership,” said Ido Sella, Co-Founder and CEO of ECOncrete. “It is truly a lighthouse project of ecologically responsible marine construction that highlights the feasibility in harnessing coastal infrastructure to support and enhance marine biodiversity at scale."
The Port established its Blue Economy Incubator in 2016 to foster sustainable aquaculture and emerging blue technologies. The goal is to build a portfolio of new businesses that have potential to deliver multiple social, environmental, and economic co-benefits to the region.
The Climate Leadership Awards, presented annually during the TCR’s Climate Leadership Conference, honors organizations, partnerships, and individuals from various sectors for their outstanding contributions in combatting climate change. The award aligns with the Port’s mission to champion the environmental safekeeping of San Diego Bay.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 22 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
ABOUT PORT OF SAN DIEGO ENVIRONMENT
Port of San Diego Environment champions the safekeeping and environmental care of our diverse ecosystems. Year after year, environmental goals are set and measured to evolve environmental initiatives – ensuring San Diego Bay remains a vibrant resource and contributes to a remarkable way of life for visitors and residents for generations to come.