Artificial wreck reefs: a preliminary assessment of their economic benefits to the coastal economy on a district level

The increasing number of artificial wreck reefs provides economic benefits to the local community. This study estimated the economic benefits of the artificial reef diving industry in Karaburun by using questionnaires with divers. Diving business revenues and total business revenues from artificial wreck divers were calculated to be US$84 and US$175 thousand, respectively. In Turkey, while considering the cost of the preparation of a vessel (US$5 thousand for 50-m lengths, two vessels), the businesses revenue from artificial wreck divers to the local economy might be seen as a quite significant return-on-investment. According to the results of the study, the number of wreck divers and their revenues have potential to grow year by year, while considering the lifespan of the wrecks. An appropriate management plan is required to manage the increased numbers on the coastal areas with an economic and environmentally sound method, and then, artificial wreck reefs may generate a win-win case for the local economy and the marine life.