Everything you need to know about ‘Oceanides’, a biodegradable system to replant posidonia oceanica

Carmen Rodríguez Masip, from Ibiza and trained in Product Design in Madrid, has developed an innovative biodegradable system for replanting posidonia oceanica in areas of the Mediterranean affected by both human activity and other environmental factors.

The project, called ‘Oceanides’, originated as part of her final degree project and has since evolved into a proposal that combines eco-design, material research, and environmental education, with the aim of “stopping the regression of this marine plant, which is fundamental to coastal ecosystems,” explains Rodríguez.

The project is based on the creation of a "planting nail" made from a biomaterial that combines dead posidonia leaves collected from beaches with other natural elements such as corn. This piece acts as both a support and a "pot" for seeds or cuttings, which are buried directly in the seabed. “The material biodegrades progressively, enriching the substrate without leaving residues, which facilitates more effective rooting while being environmentally friendly,” the creator notes.

Since completing her studies, Rodríguez has continued developing the project independently, combining material testing, research, and design. In December 2024, her proposal was awarded second prize in the Balearic product design competition Art Jove 2024. “I feel like this project is bigger than me and that it has to become a reality,” says the 26-year-old.

In addition to the technical side, the designer has created an illustrated story aimed at children, through which she leads educational sessions in schools across Ibiza. She has already visited institutions such as CEIP Poeta Villangómez and La Consolación. The story explains what Posidonia is, why it’s not an algae, and the vital functions it serves in the ecosystem: from producing oxygen and purifying water to protecting beaches from erosion and serving as a refuge for dozens of marine species. “If children understand what Posidonia is, they’re more likely to value and protect it. And through them, adults learn as well,” says Rodríguez.

Although the project does not yet have stable funding or technical partners, Rodríguez continues to develop it and hopes to carry out sea trials this summer. She is open to potential support that would help consolidate this solution as an effective tool for marine restoration and environmental education. “Important things take time. But if we can help reconcile people with the planet, it’s worth trying,” the young Ibizan concludes.