Project Sikka
Artificial reefs made in Malta
3D-printed clay reef structures designed to restore degraded marine habitats and support biodiversity in Maltese waters, a long-term commitment running to 2030.
3D-printed clay reef structures designed to restore degraded marine habitats and support biodiversity in Maltese waters, a long-term commitment running to 2030.
Project Sikka is Żibel's longest-running ecosystem restoration initiative. Rather than simply removing waste from the ocean, Sikka actively works to rebuild the habitats that have been damaged by pollution, trawling, and human activity.
The project uses 3D-printed clay reef modules designed and produced in Malta in collaboration with Matter Make and the University of Malta, mimicking natural reef complexity and providing shelter and substrate for marine life.
Reef units are deployed at targeted sites across Maltese waters and monitored over time for colonisation rates, species diversity, and structural performance. The project runs through 2030.
Get InvolvedDuration
2021 to 2030
Project Partners
Technology
3D-printed clay structures engineered to replicate natural reef complexity and support colonisation by native marine species.
Project Timeline
Initial reef design and material research begins with Matter Make and the University of Malta.
First 3D-printed clay reef modules designed and tested for structural integrity and marine compatibility.
Prototype reef units deployed at selected sites in Maltese waters for ecological monitoring.
Full reef network established across priority sites, with ongoing biodiversity monitoring and data collection.