The port of Saint-Tropez has taken another step in the fight against marine pollution. Since May 2026, a bubble curtain, baptized InvisibleBobbleIt is installed there to contain hydrocarbons in the event of a leak. Developed by The Searial Cleaners (a subsidiary of the Wearth group), this device, the first of its kind in France, acts as an invisible barrier, preventing the spread of pollutants while preserving the ecosystem. This technological advancement is part of the port’s already certified environmental approach. “Clean Ports” And “Clean Ports Active in Biodiversity”.
To remember
- InvisibleBobble : Submerged bubble curtain, generated by an air compressor, which creates a physical barrier from the bottom to the surface to contain hydrocarbons.
- Functioning : Manual activation via a button in case of leakage, creating an internal current to concentrate the pollutants and facilitate their pumping.
- Benefits :
- Without impact on wildlife, flora or port activities.
- Minimal electricity consumption, no additional human resources required.
- Adaptable to all aquatic environments (ports, marinas, rivers, lakes).
- Context : First installation in France for the containment of hydrocarbons. Already tested in Paris (Ourcq canal) for the collection of floating waste.
Technology at the service of the environment
The problem: ubiquitous hydrocarbons
In port areas, hydrocarbon leaks (fuels, oils, greases) are frequent:
- Sources Leaking nozzles, overflowing tanks, drain residue.
- Consequences :
- Formation of a film on the surface or mixing in the water column.
- Suffocation of fauna and flora.
- Introduction of carcinogenic and bioaccumulative components into the food chain.
The solution: InvisiBubble
- Principle : One or more pipes placed at the bottom of the water, connected to a compressor, release air bubbles which form a vertical curtain.
- Effect :
- Confinement The hydrocarbons are blocked in a delimited area.
- Concentration The current generated by the bubbles groups the pollutants together, simplifying their recovery.
- Oxygenation Increased oxygen levels in the water, which is beneficial for the ecosystem.
“This system empowers users, who can activate the shutter as soon as a leak is detected.”
— Antoine Repiton-PréneufHead of Innovation, The Searial Cleaners.
Saint-Tropez, a pioneering territory
A recognized commitment
The port of Saint-Tropez, already certified for its environmental practices, is strengthening its status as sustainable port :
- Certifications : “Clean Ports” And “Clean Ports Active in Biodiversity”.
- Objective : To raise awareness among boaters, residents and visitors about the protection of the marine environment.
“This InvisiBubble is a further step towards making Saint-Tropez an exemplary port. We are proud to be the first in France to adopt this solution.”
— Pascal Bonnet, Director of the port of Saint-Tropez.
A tried and tested system
The Searial Cleaners has deployed versions of InvisiBubble worldwide, including:
- Paris (2024) : 4 curtains in the Ourcq canal to redirect floating waste towards collection points.
- Global capacity More than 80 solutions installed, enabling collection 600 tonnes of waste per year.
The Searial Cleaners and Wearth Group: committed experts
Key figures for Wearth Group and The Searial Cleaners
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Head office | Ain (France), with branches on 5 continents |
| Presence | More than 30 countries, 15,000 installations worldwide |
| Expertise | 40 years dedicated to the preservation of land and sea territories |
| Effective | 150 employees |
| Revenue | 40 million euros |
| Leading solutions | InvisiBubble, BeBot, CollecThor, Jellyfishbot (waste collection) |
| Assignment | A mission-driven company committed to fighting physical water pollution |
The port of Saint-Tropez in brief
Characteristics of the port of Saint-Tropez
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Ability | 729 moorings spread over 9 hectares |
| Location | Heart of the village, in the Mediterranean |
| Role | A major port of call, a popular destination for cruise lines and ship owners |
| Services | Reception, security, environmental management, technical maintenance |
| Events | Support for international events |
Why is this important?
The installation of InvisiBubble in Saint-Tropez marks a concrete progress in the management of port pollution. By combining technological innovation And user empowermentThis project shows how ports can combine economic activity And respect for the environment.