Development of a Low-Cost Environmental Monitoring Buoy: a Case Study from the SeaTecHub Project

In this paper, we present a low-cost environmental buoy developed as part of the SeaTecHub project. The buoy’s novel design, characterized by a lightweight construction, a simple user interface, and affordability, aims to provide an accessible technology that can be easily deployed and operated by any interested stakeholder without the need for extensive prior knowledge or training. This will facilitate the widespread adoption of this technology, helping to increase marine environmental data collection and raise awareness of the blue economy’s needs. The paper covers all aspects of the buoy’s design, from the mechanical design and production process to the selection of electronic and sensing units.