Introduction
The North Sea was once an abundant ecosystem full of life.
It is facing numerous challenges, because of these challenges the physical, chemical, and biological conditions are changing. This has catastrophic effects degrading the habitats and the species that live there.
The oyster, a small yet important keystone species. With its 3D reef structures and water filtering abilities they form the basis for a healthy ecosystem. Unfortunately their numbers have declined by 85-95% in the last 100 years.
How can we, by utilizing natures teachings save the North Sea?
A design build with a material made from locally available waste streams that is biodegradable.
A design based on the Strong durable structures of the phylum porifera, also known as the glass sponge, that allows for efficient water filtering. A design that will offer temporary protection from predators and the strong currents to juvenile oyster spat. Giving them all the necessary extractable materials and time that they need to grow into strong adult oysters.
The oyster spot A small intervention that is efficient, adaptable in its design and in harmony with the environment, based on nature for nature, with exponential effect
Closeup picture of the presentation board with the circular economical system
Picture of the material sample underwater (Oosterschelde)
Underwater test of prototype
Picture of me next to the first prototype at the HKU Awards
First concept poster
The Circular economical aspect
To not only Design for the Oyster and its ecosystem. I also wanted to keep in mind the different stakeholders within the economic system. To make this as circular as possible, I looked at potential partnerships and mutualistic relationships. My proposition is as follows: To place the oyster spots between windmills to ensure a fishing-free zone. In collaboration with seaweed farms, a mutually beneficial relationship could be established. The seaweed could function as a buffer between the windmill’s energy and the oysters, providing better water quality and giving the seaweed crops more yield.
The ships used for the seaweed harvest would have a dual purpose of distribution.
More oysters = better overall water quality, so oyster farms like Seafarm would benefit as well, which would mean more waste material for me to use.
The Oyster Spot Booklet
for more information
