What the Sawfish Tells Us About the Health of Our Oceans
RanMarine Communications – 17/10/2025
Each year, on 17 October, the world celebrates International Sawfish Day. A day dedicated to one of the ocean’s most remarkable yet critically endangered species: the sawfish.
Closely related to sharks and rays, sawfish are living relics of our planet’s marine past. Despite their resilience, they now face the very real threat of extinction.
A stunning sawfish
Ancient and Endangered
Sawfish are ancient fish whose distinctive saw-like snouts, or rostra, help them sense and catch prey. Sadly, this same feature often leads to their entanglement in fishing nets, one of the main causes of their decline. Populations of sawfish have plummeted by more than 90% worldwide due to a combination of threats:
Overfishing and bycatch in coastal and estuarine areas
Habitat loss caused by coastal development and mangrove destruction
Pollution from plastic waste and chemical run-off
Illegal trade in sawfish parts and curios
All five known species of sawfish are now listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and protected under CITES Appendix I, which prohibits global trade in sawfish or their parts.
Pollution: A Threat We Can Fight
While overfishing and habitat loss remain major global challenges, pollution is one threat we can actively combat. Every bottle, bag, and fragment of debris that enters a waterway contributes to habitat degradation, affecting sawfish and countless other marine species. At RanMarine Technology, we’re addressing this challenge with innovative, data-driven solutions. Our WasteSharks and MegaSharks are designed to remove floating debris, plastics, and organic waste from waterways before it can reach the ocean.
By collecting waste early, we help restore balance to aquatic ecosystems and support the biodiversity that keeps them healthy. Each WasteShark mission contributes to:
Preventing plastics from entering aquatic food chains
Improving water quality in cities, ports, marinas, and rivers
Creating cleaner, safer habitats for aquatic species
These innovations demonstrate how technology and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand, offering practical, scalable solutions to the global challenge of water pollution.
The story of the sawfish reminds us that every action counts. Protecting one species means protecting an entire ecosystem, and it starts with clean water.
🐙 What the Octopus Can Teach Us About Smarter Ocean Clean-up
“On World Octopus Day, RanMarine takes inspiration from one of the ocean’s most adaptable survivors.”
By RanMarine Communications – 08 Oct 2025 Few marine animals embody intelligence and adaptability like the octopus. With three hearts, blue blood, and the ability to change colour and texture in an instant, the octopus has mastered survival in the ocean’s most dynamic environments. It uses tools, solves problems, and even learns by observation. A remarkable example of nature’s design.
But even the most resourceful creatures can’t thrive if their environment is overwhelmed by pollution. Every year, millions of tons of waste flow from rivers, canals, harbours, and lakes into the sea, carrying with it the plastic and debris that threaten marine ecosystems. By the time this pollution reaches open water, it’s already too late. The key is prevention, not clean-up after the fact.
At RanMarine, we’ve taken that lesson to heart. Our WasteShark drones are designed to remove floating debris and plastics before they reach the ocean, patrolling inland waterways, ports, and city canals where waste begins its journey downstream.
Much like the octopus, the WasteShark is quiet, efficient, and adaptive. They glide through the water autonomously, capturing waste without disturbing aquatic life, helping cities and ports prevent pollution at its source.
WasteShark operates in canals, harbours, and lakes, removing floating waste before it reaches the ocean.
World Octopus Day isn’t just about celebrating a fascinating animal. It’s a reminder that ocean protection starts close to home. By acting upstream, we can stop waste from ever reaching the habitats that species like the octopus depend on.
If nature can adapt, so can we, with intelligent technology designed to keep our waterways clean and our oceans resilient.
We’re proud to share our feature segment from TRT World’s NexTech programme, showcasing how RanMarine’s autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) are tackling water pollution head-on.
Going to the Problem
Rather than waiting at fixed collection points, our robust ASVs actively navigate through harbours, canals, and waterbodies, seeking out and collecting floating debris wherever it accumulates. Remote-controlled or fully autonomous, our technology goes directly to the pollution.
Collection Meets Intelligence
Whilst collecting waste, our vessels simultaneously record GPS-coded water quality data, providing environmental insights alongside physical clean-up capabilities. It’s smart technology working hard to protect our waterways.
RanMarine solution on 𝐓𝐑𝐓 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝’𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡
Video credit: TRT World NexTech
Learn More
Discover how RanMarine’s WasteShark and MegaShark are keeping waterways clean worldwide.
8 Sept 2025 – RanMarine is proud to announce the official launch of our WasteShark autonomous surface vessel in the canals of Breda, Netherlands, marking a significant milestone in our mission to clean waterways using cutting-edge technology. The launch ceremony took place on Monday 8th September, with Councillor Carla Kranenborg-Van Eerd (Economy and Digitalisation) and Councillor Peter Bakker (Nature Development) officially launching the project in the historic singels (canals) of Breda.
Beyond Waste Collection The WasteShark deployment in Breda represents more than traditional waste collection. Working alongside educational and business partners, the vessel is being developed into a multifunctional water management tool capable of monitoring water quality and detecting pollution sources. The project showcases Breda’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, forming part of the city’s robust robotics cluster. Students from Curio and Avans universities are actively involved in developing applications that align with European objectives, including the Water Framework Directive coming into force in 2027. Robert der Kinderen, Head of Distribution at RanMarine, commented: “We’re pleased and excited to be working with Gemeente Breda in North Brabant. This partnership demonstrates how autonomous technology can address real environmental challenges whilst fostering collaboration between government, education, and industry.” Councillor Carla Kranenborg-Van Eerd said: “The WasteShark is a beautiful example of how we apply technology in Breda in a way that helps people. We want to be a city where applied technology and creativity contribute to wellbeing, future resilience and economic growth. This project brings together government, entrepreneurs, education and technology. Breda brings it together, and you can literally see that in action here.” Councillor Peter Bakker highlighted the environmental benefits: “The quality of our water is under pressure, while a healthy and clean living environment is essential for people and nature. With this type of technology, we are taking concrete steps in sustainable maintenance of our city. The WasteShark contributes directly to that.”
The Breda deployment involves key partners including Breda Robotics (project management), Curio and Avans (knowledge development), and Rabobank (financial support for sensor technology).
The WasteShark continues RanMarine’s mission to protect aquatic environments through innovative, sustainable technology solutions.
Councillor Carla Kranenborg-Van Eerd (l) and Councillor Peter Bakker launch the Breda WasteShark
Turning Tides: Art Meets Clean Tech at TOFFLER Festival
RanMarine and Katoenhuis teamed up to launch a floating artwork that cleans water while captivating audiences
This past weekend, RanMarine Technology proudly supported Turning Tides, a bold fusion of art, technology and sustainability, unveiled during the 10th anniversary of TOFFLER Festival at Rotterdam’s Roel Langerakpark.
In collaboration with Katoenhuis and creative artist Wes Broersen, we helped bring to life SEPIA; a mesmerising kinetic light sculpture installed atop our WasteShark. While captivating festival-goers with its rhythmic, cuttlefish-inspired movement and light reflections, the WasteShark beneath quietly did what it does best; cleaning up to 100 kg of floating waste from the lake.
WasteShark with light artwork
The project was part of Katoenhuis’ Turning Tides artist residency, designed to explore the synergy between nature, technology and environmental action through floating installations. With its premiere at TOFFLER Festival, SEPIA set the tone for future editions, including a planned showing at Koelhuis Eindhoven.
We were proud to sponsor this initiative, which brought together local talent and innovation from the M4H district, including roofrack designer Nick Mansveld, curator Marjolein Vlaming, and support from Cultuur Concreet.
It was a vibrant display of what’s possible when creative minds and clean tech join forces—and a great reminder that sustainability can be as inspiring as it is impactful.
Artist: Wes Broersen Residency: Katoenhuis Rotterdam (SHINE network) Roof-rack Design: Nick Mansveld Curator: Marjolein Vlaming Sponsor: RanMarine Technology Supported by: Cultuur Concreet, Toffler Festival Media: Boudewijn Bollmann, Bula Filmproductions, De Vliegende Cameraman, Juriën Cornelissen (Convoi Films)
Aquatic Drones Tackle Local Waterway Pollution
By Furhana Husani, Director of Programs and Climate Initiatives – Waterfront Alliance
May 28, 2025
The New York and New Jersey waterways face significant environmental challenges, particularly from plastic pollution, harmful algal blooms, and the accumulation of biomass and other floating debris. These issues threaten marine ecosystems, biodiversity, human health, and economies reliant on clean water.
Plastic Pollution: A stark example of the problem is the estimate that 165 million pieces of plastic are floating in New York Harbor and nearby waters at any given time. This is part of a global issue where over 171 trillion pieces of plastic are in our oceans, projected to triple by 2040. This plastic debris, including tiny nurdles, breaks down into microplastics and nanoplastics, releasing chemicals that harm marine life and are considered among the world’s top environmental challenges.
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and Biomass: HABs, caused by cyanobacteria that flourish due to excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from runoff, are increasingly prevalent. Last summer, over 500 confirmed harmful algal bloom conditions have been reported statewide in New York, affecting dozens of water bodies. HABs can cause health problems for humans and animals, from skin rashes to severe illnesses, leading to beach and swimming area closures for extended periods. Climate change is expected to exacerbate the frequency and intensity of these blooms.
Oil and Hydrocarbons: Incidental oil spills in areas like ports and marinas, often from land-based runoff or leisure craft, pose a risk to environmental health and can restrict activities like swimming, boating, and fishing.
These challenges underscore the urgent need for effective, environmentally sound methods for pollution removal and waterway restoration in densely populated coastal areas like New York and New Jersey.
RanMarine Technology, a cleantech company specializing in the design, manufacture, and sale of autonomous surface vessels (ASVs), also known as aquatic drones, is focusing its efforts on tackling these critical water pollution problems in New York and New Jersey waterways. Founded in Rotterdam, the Netherlands in 2016, RanMarine’s mission is to empower people, companies, and governments worldwide to restore marine and freshwater environments to their natural state using advanced, zero-emission technologies and data-driven approaches. ASVs are designed to clean the surfaces of waterways, including ports, harbors, marinas, rivers, estuaries, canal systems, lakes, and ponds.
RanMarine’s technology directly addresses these problems. The primary focus of their ASVs is the removal of harmful plastic pollutants, algae/biomass, and oils from water, as well as the treatment of HABs. Core products include:
WasteShark: An agile, efficient, and emission-free ASV that operates autonomously or via remote control to collect floating plastic debris and biomass.
MegaShark: A mid-sized vessel (tender boat duality) designed for high-volume waste collection of aquatic waste and biomass. Operated on-deck or via remote control.
BlueShark: Integrates WasteShark or MegaShark ASVs with a patented, chemical-free system that disrupts and eradicates cyanobacteria (the cause of HABs) in situ, reducing toxicity and nutrients without harming the ecosystem.
OilShark (in development): Designed as a first responder for incidental petrochemical and/or hydrocarbon spills in specific areas like ports and marinas.
RanMarine vessels are fully electric and operate with zero emissions, minimizing environmental disturbance and noise compared to traditional fossil-fuel methods.
Beyond collecting waste, RanMarine’s ASVs offer additional capabilities, often through partnerships with third parties. While operating, they can collect critical water quality data using various sensors, such as chlorophyll, pH levels, water temperature, salinity, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen. This data can be accessed in near real-time through the RanMarine Connect portal, aiding informed decision-making about water quality. The vessels can also be utilized for tasks like bathymetry in shallow nearshore areas, acoustic telemetry for tracking tagged fish, and visual mapping of the waterfront.
The application of RanMarine ASVs in the New York environment is evidenced through the successful deployment of a WasteShark at the Hudson River Park Trust (HRPT).
Vice President of Estuary & Education at the Hudson River Park Trust (HRPT), Carrie Roble said “Thanks to a grant from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, we were able to purchase our WasteShark, affectionally named “Gulp” by our community, approximately two years ago. Gulp now has her own little “shark-shed” at the Gansevoort Peninsula where our team periodically deploys her to help clean plastic hot spots along the bulkhead and park piers. Aside from collecting floating debris, she’s eye catching and an exciting educational tool, prompting conversations between Park users and our River Project team about our important work as park stewards.”
RanMarine’s strategy for deploying its technology, particularly in areas with significant need but limited direct funding like the vast New York and New Jersey shoreline, is heavily focused on innovative partnerships. This is achieved via multi-sector collaborations involving International Governmental Organizations (IGOs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), various tiers of government, technical partners, operational partners, and ultimately funders including but not limited to as grant makers, corporate sponsors, and environmentally conscious high-net-worth individuals.
A prime example of this approach is the recently launched “Adopt a Shark” initiative in New York City. This initiative will facilitate the deployment of RanMarine ASVs across multiple harbor sites to remove floating plastic debris and biomass and treat HABs in situ. This program will work to engage local communities and involve organizations specializing in the green-blue economy and workforce training.
Through this partnership strategy, RanMarine seeks to make its innovative technology accessible to the areas and organizations that need it most, facilitating crucial clean-up and restoration efforts across the vast and complex waterways of New York and New Jersey and raising awareness about the significant pollution problems they face.
RanMarine is currently seeking to connect with environmental stewards, community leaders, and potential sponsors and funding partners in the New York and New Jersey area who recognize the need for these capabilities in their local waterways and are interested in exploring collaborative deployment opportunities.
For all enquiries regarding partnerships and/or deployment opportunities in the NY/NJ area, please contact Andrew Douglas, email: andrew.douglas@ranmarine.io or cell/WhatsApp: +27 73 790 5946 For further RanMarine related Products and/or Procurement options, availability, or possible Distributorship interests then please contact us on: sales@ranmarine.io / +31 616952175
RanMarine’s speciality lies in creating waterborne robots, also known as Autonomous Surface Vehicles, that focus on cleaning floating pollution out of waterways, both inland and coastal. Founder and CEO Richard Hardiman was inspired to start the company after observing people using nets to fish rubbish from water. A firm believer in using technology to replace mundane tasks, Hardiman set out to address the inefficiency he saw: “I wanted to solve that inefficiency rather than a pollution problem.”
Trash Trapping Program rids Toronto Harbour of 175,000+ pieces of plastic in 2024
PortsToronto’s Trash Trapping Program has emerged as a beacon of environmental innovation, showcasing how technology and collaboration can effectively combat waterway pollution. Since its inception in 2019, the program has made significant strides in removing plastic debris and other contaminants from Toronto Harbour, preventing these pollutants from reaching Lake Ontario and beyond.
A Multifaceted Approach to Pollution Control
The Trash Trapping Program utilizes a combination of advanced technologies and manual efforts to address the pervasive issue of floating debris. Key tools include Seabins, WasteShark aquadrones, and LittaTrap catch basin filters. Seabins, essentially floating garbage bins, are deployed at strategic locations along Toronto’s waterfront to suck in trash from the water’s surface. WasteSharks, nicknamed “Ebb” and “Flow,” are remote-controlled aquadrones that skim the water for floating debris. Meanwhile, LittaTraps are installed in storm drains to capture plastics before they even enter the waterways.
Complementing these technologies is manual skimming, which involves physically removing large debris and invasive plants that accumulate microplastics. Together, these efforts have created a robust system for intercepting waste at multiple points along its journey to the lake.
PortsToronto staff empty a WasteShark aquadrone of floating debris captured during a Trash Trapping Program mission in the Peter Street Basin on the Toronto waterfront. The materials collected by trash traps are counter and characterized by U of T Trash Team researchers. (CNW Group/PortsToronto)
Impressive Results
The program’s achievements speak volumes about its effectiveness. Between May and October 2024 alone, over 600 kilograms of anthropogenic debris—waste created by human activities—were removed from Toronto Harbour. This included more than 100,000 small pieces of plastic, such as bottle caps, foam fragments from food containers, cigarette butts, and even larger items like fatbergs. In earlier years, similar efforts removed tens of thousands of pieces of plastic annually, underscoring the program’s consistent impact.
Notably, the introduction of WasteSharks in 2023 proved particularly effective. In just three trials during their pilot phase, these aquadrones collected approximately 20 kilograms of marine debris. Combined with ongoing efforts by Seabins and other devices, the program has become a critical tool in reducing microplastics and other pollutants in Toronto’s waterways.
Research-Driven Innovation
A cornerstone of the Trash Trapping Program is its partnership with the University of Toronto Trash Team (U of T Trash Team). Researchers from the team meticulously analyse the materials collected by trash traps to identify sources and trends in pollution. This data-driven approach not only informs solutions-based research but also supports policy changes aimed at reducing waste at its source.
For instance, researchers have identified that much of the floating debris originates from stormwater run-off, industrial activities, and improperly managed waste bins near water edges. Insights like these have led to targeted community outreach programs designed to increase waste literacy and encourage better disposal practices.
Expanding Impact Beyond Toronto
The success of PortsToronto’s initiative has inspired similar programs across the Great Lakes region and beyond. As part of the International Trash Trapping Network led by Ocean Conservancy and U of T Trash Team, lessons learned from Toronto are being applied globally to combat plastic pollution in urban waterways.
Moreover, PortsToronto’s efforts align with broader strategies like the Toronto Inner Harbour Floatables Strategy. This collaborative framework brings together various stakeholders to reduce floating litter through innovative methods and strategic placement of trash traps.
Looking Ahead
As the program enters its seventh year in 2025, PortsToronto is set to expand its capabilities further. Plans include adding three new fixed trash-trapping devices to its existing fleet of seven Seabins and two WasteSharks. These additions will enhance coverage along Toronto’s waterfront and Outer Harbour Marina.
The continued success of this initiative underscores the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges. By combining cutting-edge technology with research-driven strategies and community engagement, PortsToronto is not only cleaning up local waterways but also setting a global example for sustainable urban water management.
Marina Maintenance: How Autonomous Surface Vessels are Making Waves
World Marina – Dec 2024
In the competitive world of marina management, maintaining pristine waters is more than just an environmental responsibility—it’s a business imperative. Innovative Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs) are transforming how marinas approach water cleanliness and environmental stewardship. These cutting-edge technologies offer a compelling solution to the persistent challenge of marine debris and water pollution in marinas.
ASVs can autonomously navigate through marina waters, efficiently collecting floating trash, plastics, and organic matter. Capable of removing significant quantities of waste daily, these vessels substantially reduce the manual labor traditionally required for water maintenance.
One of the key advantages of ASVs is their versatility. Their compact size allows them to access areas between docked boats and in tight corners where traditional cleaning methods struggle to reach. This ensures comprehensive coverage of the marina, leaving no area untouched in the pursuit of cleanliness.
Beyond debris collection, leading ASVs can serve as valuable data-gathering tools. When equipped with sensors, they can monitor water quality parameters in real-time, providing marina managers with crucial information about their aquatic environment. This data can be instrumental in identifying pollution sources and implementing targeted solutions.
The electric-powered operation of many ASVs aligns perfectly with the growing emphasis on sustainability in the marine industry. Their zero-emission functionality not only maintains clean waters but also contributes to a marina’s green credentials, potentially attracting environmentally conscious boat owners and visitors.
Importantly, ASVs operate quietly and unobtrusively, ensuring they don’t disturb marina patrons or wildlife. Their autonomous capability allows for continuous operation, maintaining water cleanliness round the clock without increasing labor costs.
By incorporating ASVs into their maintenance toolkit, marinas can demonstrate their commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. This cutting-edge technology not only enhances the cleanliness and aesthetics of marina waters but also positions the marina as a leader in sustainable maritime practices.
Key Benefits of ASV Deployment in Marinas:
Efficient Debris Removal: Collects substantial amounts of waste daily.
Versatile Cleaning: Removes floating trash, plastics, and organic matter.
Access to Hard-to-Reach Areas: Cleans between docked boats and in tight spaces.
Environmental Data Collection: Possibility to gather real-time water quality data.
Autonomous Operation: Reduces labor costs and allows continuous cleaning.
Non-Disruptive: Quiet operation doesn’t disturb marina patrons or wildlife.
Cost-Effective: More efficient than traditional manual cleaning methods.
Enhanced Marina Appeal: Maintains clean, attractive waters for patrons.
Innovative Image: Demonstrates commitment to cutting-edge solutions.
Comprehensive Coverage: Ensures no area of the marina is left uncleaned.
Data-Driven Management: Provides insights for targeted pollution solutions.
New UAE Partnership
RanMarine Technology partners with RV Consultancy to Enhance UAE’s Efforts in Aquatic Ecosystem Conservation and Sustainable Tourism Development
Rotterdam / United Arab Emirates, November 5, 2024 – RanMarine Technology, a leading cleantech innovator in autonomous water cleaning solutions, enthusiastically announces its partnership with RV Consultancy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As a strategic partner, RV Consultancy will play a crucial role in supporting the deployment of RanMarine’s award-winning autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) in key aquatic locations across the UAE. Together, they aim to advance aquatic ecosystem conservation in line with the UAE’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
RV Consultancy, a well-established business consultancy specialising in Logistics Management, brings extensive expertise in supporting complex initiatives within ports, harbours, and coastal environments. With RV Consultancy’s support, RanMarine’s pioneering ASVs—including the WasteShark and the recently launched MegaShark—will help remove plastic waste, algae, and other pollutants from water surfaces in marinas, harbours, and calm waterways across the UAE. This partnership will contribute to preserving the UAE’s natural aquatic environments, providing a cleaner, more sustainable experience for residents and tourists alike.
Richard Hardiman, CEO of RanMarine Technology, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to partner with RV Consultancy to support the UAE’s vision for clean, vibrant aquatic environments. Our technology is crafted to work in harmony with nature, providing an efficient way to tackle water pollution while preserving the stunning aquatic landscapes that attract visitors from around the world.”
Robin Vermaat, Founder and CEO of RV Consultancy, stated: “Introducing RanMarine’s zero-emission autonomous water cleaning solutions in the UAE aligns perfectly with the nation’s commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 14. I’m honoured to support my clients in the UAE by contributing to the preservation of marine biodiversity and the sustainable use of the country’s coastal and aquatic environments.”
This partnership comes at a pivotal moment as the UAE enhances initiatives to attract global yachting, sailing enthusiasts, and marine adventurers. By addressing environmental challenges with innovative, sustainable solutions, the UAE is making meaningful strides toward a balanced approach to tourism, supporting both ecological preservation and its reputation as a premier destination for marine enthusiasts.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Mr. Patrick Baransky Global Head of Marketing RanMarine Technology Email: press@ranmarine.io Phone: +31 616952175
Mr. Robin Vermaat Founder & CEO RV Consultancy Email: robin@rv-consultancy.com Phone: +971 54 409 7983
About RanMarine Technology RanMarine Technology is a leading cleantech company specialising in the design and distribution of emission-free autonomous surface vessels, such as the WasteShark and the recently launched MegaShark. These innovative ASVs effectively remove plastic, algae, and waste while collecting critical water-quality data to protect aquatic ecosystems. RanMarine is also preparing to introduce the OilShark in 2025, which will be designed specifically for oil spill clean-up. Discover more at www.ranmarine.io –Innovation, crafted for nature
About RV Consultancy RV Consultancy is a premier business consulting firm with expertise in Logistics Management, including ports and marinas. We help companies to improve and optimise their operations and support their business in providing cost-effective and innovative solutions that empower their growth and sustainability objectives. www.rv-consultancy.com
