In a world where shark populations are declining and harmful methods are being employed to mitigate the risk of shark attacks, one South African business is striving to find a better solution. Inspired by the delicate balance of nature and armed with a deep understanding of shark behaviour, SharkSafe Barrier™ (SSB) has developed an innovative and eco-friendly system to protect humans without harming these incredible creatures. Their pioneering approach aims to create harmony between humans and sharks, ensuring the conservation of these apex predators.
With over 13 years of experience, SSB has become a trusted name in the industry, combining cutting-edge technology with a dedication to sustainability. SSB CEO, co-founder and Director, Prof. Conrad Matthee, is also the Head of the Department of Botany and Zoology of Stellenbosch University (SU). “For our team, it is all about shark research and the protection of sharks. That is the driving force behind everything we do,” says Matthee.
At its core, SSB utilises state-of-the-art technology that mimics the visual effects of a thick kelp forest, a natural deterrent for sharks. By replicating this underwater environment, the barrier discourages sharks from approaching and entering areas where humans swim. But SSB takes it a step further. By incorporating a series of permanent magnetic stimuli, the barrier creates an even stronger deterrent effect, ensuring the safety of beachgoers without harming marine life.
The idea for the company was born out of a genuine concern for both human safety and the well-being of sharks. Traditional methods of shark mitigation often involve culling or lethal actions that harm the delicate marine ecosystem. The business was set up by the SU Innovation and Commercialisation Division (Innovus) with the primary objective of ending the indiscriminate killing of marine life when alternative strategies can be employed.
“SSB provides an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to conventional anti-shark devices such as shark nets and drumlines. We believe that providing a solution for safe surfing and swimming is just a small piece of a large puzzle, and only a combined effort between innovation, conservation and education will bring the much-needed change to existing shark-management policies,” continues Matthee.
One of the challenges along the way was funding to take the project to the market with adequate human resources. “I quickly learned that there is a fine line between a sale and someone showing interest in buying the product. There are many more hurdles to cross than simply setting up a business. All support is needed, and well-protected IP is critically essential,” says Matthee. “Innovus provided enormous help in our business journey: registering the company, providing administrative support and some funding support through the TIA programme. Assisting us with the protection of our IP was a major contribution,” says Matthee.
The technology that defines SSB has received international recognition as well as numerous awards. It is also internationally supported by SHARKPROJECT (Austria) and the Humane Society International of Australia.
Featured among the online panellists at the Wave of Change Event in France in 2020, SSB was recognised by the World Economic Forum’s digital platform UpLink as one of its top ocean innovators. Moreover, it was labelled as a Solar Impulse Efficient Solution in 2020 and has been included in the 1000 Ocean Start-ups Coalition, as well as winning the South African NSTF-Lewis Foundation Green Economy Award at the annual National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF/South32Awards). SSB is also listed among the French organisation Tech4Island solutions and was a finalist in the Australian Ocean Impact Pitchfest 2020. Additionally, it was also featured at the Biomimic Expo (Paris, 2020).
With a long list of achievements and recognition, SSB is poised to constantly move forward, inspired by the majestic animals they want to protect at all causes.
To find out more about Sharksafe Barrier™ click here.