From Superinnovators 03/11/23. This article is in TLDR (Too Long Didn’t Read) format which is popular in the innovation community and provides a bullet summary of information.
- Introduction: Seatrac is an initiative aimed at making beaches in Greece more accessible to individuals with mobility challenges, allowing them to enjoy the sea independently.
- The Seatrac system: Designed by TOBEA, a Greek company, Seatrac is a solar-powered, remote-operated ramp and track with sliding chair that enables beach-goers to move into the water. The system can be installed on various terrains, including sand and rocky beaches.
- Government initiative and funding: The Greek government plans to improve access to 287 beaches with a €15 million project. Over 200 Seatrac chairs are expected to be installed, with 147 beaches already completed. The initiative is co-funded by the EU’s European Regional Development Fund and national agencies.
- User experience and independence: Seatrac allows users to bypass the sand and access the sea independently, providing dignity and autonomy. Users can transfer themselves into the chair and use a waterproof remote control to move along the ramp into the water.
- Additional amenities: Alongside Seatrac, additional amenities such as accessible changing rooms, showers, bathrooms, parking, walkways, and shaded areas are being provided to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive beach experience.
- Global presence and expansion: Initially launched in Greece in 2012, Seatrac systems are now installed in Italy, Cyprus, and Latvia. Plans for expansion include countries like Croatia, Spain, the UK, UAE, USA, and Turkey.
- Public response and accessibility advocacy: The initiative has been well-received, with users appreciating the independence it offers. Advocates for accessibility highlight the importance of such innovations in making leisure spaces inclusive for everyone.
More info
https://seatrac.gr/en/about-seatrac/
