Belfast Harbour has become the first marina in the UK to deploy an Aquapod, an innovative system designed to capture and remove floating material directly at the waterline. The technology, which collects litter, natural debris and microplastics, is now operating in the heart of Belfast Harbour Marina, a popular destination for visitors and leisure craft.

Developed by Northern Ireland company NETZERO Alchemists, the Aquapod sits just below the surface drawing in floating debris and is emptied at regular intervals, cutting the need for labour-intensive clean-ups on the water. It is paired with Clean Impact View software to track activity over time, helping build a picture of the type and volume of material collected and to prevent wildlife from entering the device.

Alongside supporting Blue Flag Marina accreditation, environmental stewardship and day-to-day operational decision-making, the installation aligns with Belfast Harbour's strategic commitment to Create Vibrant Places to Live and Work.

The project complements existing initiatives including the oyster restoration programme with Ulster Wildlife, and the Blue Flag Environmental Code of Conduct, which encourages boat owners to play an active role in protecting the marine environment, including through the distribution of environmentally-friendly boat cleaning kits. Simon Gibson, Marine, Environment & Biodiversity Officer at Belfast Harbour, said: "We're proud to be the first marina in the UK to introduce the Aquapod system and hope Belfast Harbour can act as a benchmark for how practical innovation can support with improving water quality and creating better environments.

"The Marina is one of the most visible and high-profile places where the public and the port meet within Belfast Harbour, whether it's for visitors to our waterfront or for those who arrive into Belfast by leisure craft, so it's important that it reflects the very best of the city.

"As well as evaluating the impact of the Aquapod, we will be looking at other technological approaches we can adopt as we continue to innovate to further improve this area for visitors and boat users alike."

Alan Branagh, from NETZERO Alchemists, said: "People trust clean spaces, and Belfast Harbour has recognised that maintaining visible standards in a working harbour environment requires continuous intervention, not just occasional response. The Aquapod allows that work to happen quietly, automatically, and consistently at the waterline every day.

"This installation represents more than the introduction of new technology. It demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship by combining practical action with innovation, helping to protect the marina today while building the evidence needed to support more informed environmental management in the future."