The Alpes-Maritimes Department is undertaking a unique ecological rehabilitation in France by removing 25,000 submerged tires from the coasts of Vallauris.

As part of the GREEN Deal, this Friday starting at 10 a.m., the artificial reefs submerged in the Vallauris-Golfe Juan marine area will be rehabilitated.

25,000 tires intended to function as artificial reefs have been submerged for several decades in the protected marine area of Vallauris-Golfe Juan. These tire-based artificial reefs no longer fulfill the initial objective of supporting professional fishing and are incompatible with the conservation of marine habitats now protected under Natura 2000.

In this context, a first operation to remove the tires, led by the French Agency for Biodiversity, will be conducted starting in September to restore the marine environment where the tires have been scattered.