Remote-controlled marine robot cleans trash from Long Beach waters

LONG BEACH, Calif. - Long Beach has deployed an autonomous marine cleaning device dubbed the "Jellyfishbot" to remove debris from its marina waters, marking a new approach to waterway maintenance.

The electric-powered, remote-controlled robot can collect up to 100 pounds of waste per mission while requiring only one operator. It was introduced at last month's 40th Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day and operations began.

Bryan Plante, superintendent for marine operations, said the robot offers greater efficiency compared to traditional cleaning methods. "It's a Roomba of the sea, if you will," Plante said.

The compact 'Jellyfishbot' is an electric, remote-controlled bot that measures three feet by three feet. This allows it to access confined areas that traditional cleaning vessels cannot reach. Equipped with GPS tracking, a live camera feed, and collision avoidance systems, the robot navigates both surface and underwater obstacles while mapping its cleaning route.

The Marine Bureau plans to incorporate the device into its weekly maintenance schedule, focusing on the downtown marina and Alamitos Bay areas. The robot will also deploy after storms when debris accumulation typically increases.

City officials have launched a youth art competition to design artwork for the robot's exterior panels. The contest, open to residents aged 18 and under, offers the winning artist a $1,500 scholarship package. Submissions must be original, non-AI artwork measuring no larger than 11 by 17 inches.

"Much like you'd wrap a car, we're going to wrap those two pontoons on this device with the artwork of a local youth," Plante said. He encouraged participants to incorporate their personal connections to the ocean into their designs.

"We want to see that personal connection to … the ecosystem that we're trying to help protect and be better stewards to," Plante said.

The submission deadline is 5 p.m. Oct. 25, and finalist selection is scheduled for early November. Officials will notify the winner the week of Nov. 11, and an award ceremony is planned for Dec. 7.

The robot represents part of Long Beach's broader efforts to maintain its marine environment. Its net collection system and GPS capabilities allow city staff to target specific areas and track waterway cleaning operations.