SpilLess develops new solutions to tackle with one of the most damaging sources of maritime pollution: oil spills. Solutions are based on the production of native microbial consortia with bioremediation capacity, and the adaptation of unmanned and autonomous vehicles for in-situ release of autochthonous microorganisms (bioaugmentation) and nutrients (biostimulation).

SpilLess aims to implement an innovative ‘laboratory’ (Blue Lab) to support the development of new and viable solutions to tackle with oil spills. It will be implemented in the Atlantic Ocean, with potential for transferability to other regions facing similar challenges.

The solutions, based on native microbial consortia with bioremediation capacity and released by unmanned autonomous vehicles, are environmental-friendly, able to act as fast first line response with low time to reaction and mission costs, set-up holistic pollution combat and provide environmental monitoring.

This initiative involves three scientific partners (CIIMAR, INESC TEC and the University of Vigo) and experienced business tutors from three private companies (ACSM, Biotrend and MARLO). Besides, the R&D team will be advised and mentored by a stakeholder’s platform that includes several public and private entities.

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Concrete Application

• Combat to oil spills in aquatic environments 

• Bioremediation in aquatic environments

• Marine environmental protection and monitoring

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Market Potential

The solutions address the needs of the following sectors:

• Offshore oil and gas

• Maritime transportation

• Marine waters monitoring

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Key Points

• Production of native microbial consortia with bioremediation capacity

• Adaptation of unmanned and autonomous vehicles for in-situ release of autochthonous microorganisms and nutrients

• ​Fast first line response with low time to reaction and mission costs, complementary to other responses

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