10140986Modular Marine Monitoring Buoy (M3B)ActiveCollaborative R&DInnovate UKOcean data is crucial for informing long-term economic policies that can balance a burgeoning blue economy with environmental sustainability. But physical, biological, logistical, technical and economic challenges all make gathering and transmitting ocean data difficult. Establishing baseline data is essential in order to measure and track natural resources (e.g. fish stocks, biomass) and the impact of ocean use and industry. SeaGen, a UK Blue Tech SME, is partnering with Exeter University to revolutionise ocean monitoring with the Modular Marine Monitoring Buoy (M3B). SeaGen develop AI and solar powered marine robots to monitor water bodies. The M3B will be a solar-powered, AI-driven monitoring system designed for extended deployments in challenging marine environments. Equipped with above-water and underwater cameras, hydrophones (which record sound), and sensors for pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen, the M3B will offer a comprehensive remote view of marine operations and environments. Its modular design allows for customisation across various applications, from aquaculture to marinas, and further offshore applications like wind farms. Current monitoring solutions are primarily limited to diver based inspections and surveys that can be costly, infrequent, and potentially dangerous in difficult marine conditions. The need for consistent, detailed environmental data across seasons and weather conditions demands automated solutions - something the M3B can provide. At the heart of the M3B is its innovative power and data management systems. Machine learning algorithms ensure only 'interesting' data are transmitted (lowering power and data costs) and the collected data run through AI models to identify marine species and quantify biodiversity. This processed information is made accessible to stakeholders through SeaGen's Baseline app, allowing for easy access, analysis and cross-referencing. This project will enable partners Exeter University and SeaGen to further develop SeaGen's existing biodiversity monitoring buoy into a modular system (the M3B) that will be deployed and tested at three diverse locations in the Great South West. This real-world testing will demonstrate the M3B's versatility and effectiveness across different marine environments. The M3B will transform marine monitoring by making continuous high-quality, multi-sensory data an affordable option for a wide variety of maritime customers.