Rachel Zoe Miller’s Rozalia Project shows the remarkable power of dedication, innovation, and collaboration in marine conservation.
Over the span of 12 years, the Rozalia Project, based in the serene landscapes of Vermont, has emerged as a guiding light in the mission of preserving our oceans. Their approach, deeply rooted in data-driven strategies, champions education, innovation, and the use of cutting-edge technology, specifically leveraging ocean technology and Micro-ROVs like VideoRay’s Defender.
The founder of Rozalia, Rachel Zoe Miller, and her team expertly use remote operated vehicles to conduct detailed marine debris surveys, effectively bridging the gap between humans and the previously unknown underwater world.
At the heart of their influential initiatives lies the establishment of strong collaborations with universities, tech companies, and national entities, forming a united force committed to tackling marine debris at all depths of the ocean.
They don’t just focus on trash you can see. They also look at waste on the seabed that is often missed.
By leveraging cutting-edge ROVs like VideoRay with sharp, clear images from their 4k cameras, attaching data collecting sensors and using highly sensitive and strong robot arms, they’ve revolutionized community involvement by offering immersive experiences that display the stunning beauty of marine protected zones while underlining the dangerous implications of debris buildup.
This strategy of sharing up to date and relevant data and images has been key in raising awareness and promoting engagement among various audiences, instilling a deeper commitment to protect our invaluable oceans.
Their innovative ‘Cora Ball’ solution demonstrates the pivotal role of technology in curbing microfiber pollution, effectively preventing fibers from escaping during laundry cycles.
The Cora Ball is a new kind of laundry ball. Inspired by the way coral filters the ocean, the Cora Ball collects clothing’s microfibers into fuzz we can see, so we can dispose of microfibers in the right way. At the same time, Cora Ball helps PREVENT microfibers from breaking off your clothes, reducing the total amount of microfibers produced and protecting your clothes. The Cora Ball can keep these microfibers out of our waterways and our ocean. More information about the Cora Ball can be found here.
Rachel emphasizes the significance of mindful clothing choices in minimizing microfiber pollution, advocating for proactive steps like using cold water during laundry and integrating aftermarket filters.
To lessen microfiber pollution, consider these conscious clothing decisions:
- Opting for natural fibers: Rather than synthetic materials, choose natural fibers like cotton, wool, linen, hemp, alpaca, cashmere, and silk. These fibers are less likely to shed microfibers during washing, and any lost fibers are biodegradable.
- Purchasing second-hand: Think about buying used clothing.
- Shopping for sustainably made clothing: Seek out clothing that has been produced sustainably.
- Employing a microfiber filter: Use a microfiber filter like the “CoraBall” in your washing machine to minimize the microfibers that reach the environment.
- Reducing washing frequency: Try to wash your clothes less frequently.
- Using cold water for washing: When you do wash your clothes, use cold water.
- Setting short wash cycles: Implement short cycles when washing your clothes.
- Applying liquid detergent and fabric conditioner: Use liquid detergent and fabric conditioner to lessen the friction between clothing pieces.
- Spinning dry on low revolutions: Use low spin speeds when drying clothes to decrease friction.
Their investigative undertakings, like their detailed analysis of the Hudson River, have produced priceless knowledge about the genesis and effects of microfiber pollution. With diligent research techniques, they’ve pinpointed areas of high pollution and engaged in examining air samples for tiny microplastic fragments, building a comprehensive dataset to grapple with this urgent environmental problem.
In the pursuit of creative solutions, Rachel’s team investigates pioneering technologies such as the Mr. Trash Wheel family and other passive waste collectors.
In addition to their efforts, they actively promote using other effective and innovative methodologies , one of which is the Great Bubble Barrier. This inventive approach uses the power of bubbles to create a barrier within waterways, effectively harnessing the natural movement of air to redirect the flow of debris. By strategically positioning these bubbles, it helps in managing the accumulation of waste and also contributes to the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.
This kind of forward-thinking solution exemplifies how creativity and science can come together to tackle pressing environmental issues.
Furthermore, she encourages owners of VideoRay micro-rovs and underwater robots to collaborate with researchers, leveraging their equipment for scientific exploration and contributing observations to advance our understanding of marine ecosystems.
This story intersects at the juncture of VideoRay’s underwater robots. These cutting-edge ROVs are redefining what it means to be “inspection class” vehicles, featuring unmatched power, agility, and resilience. Constructed to carry considerable payloads and with the possibility to incorporate a wide range of sensors and tooling, VideoRay systems function flawlessly at considerable depths for prolonged durations.
These underwater robots are pivotal in demanding marine missions worldwide, ranging from national security and first responder assistance to object search and recovery, infrastructure examination, and scientific research. To delve deeper into the capabilities of VideoRay, explore VideoRay.com.
This fusion of the Rozalia Project’s tireless efforts with VideoRay’s cutting-edge technology exemplifies a synergy of passion, innovation, and technological prowess, demonstrating a shared commitment to preserving our oceans and fostering a sustainable future.
About VideoRay
VideoRay Mission Specialist Underwater Robotic Systems have redefined the “inspection class” ROV category. VideoRay systems deliver industry-leading power and maneuverability. The durable, modular platform is built to handle heavy payloads and a wide array of sensors and tooling, and these systems can operate at significant depths for hours, days, or even months at a time. Mission Specialist robots are used around the world in demanding underwater missions to support national security, first responders, object search and recovery, infrastructure examination, and science and research.