A student design concept could bring life to urban rivers

The concept aims to improve water circulation by creating a coral-reef-like structure for shrimps, shellfish, and other organisms

Spotted: A group of students from Tunghai University in Taiwan have designed an installation for urban rivers as their entry for the ‘Green Concept’ category of the 2022 Green Product Awards. The system—which is called C-Ecology—features environmentally friendly ceramics that are 3D-printed.

The design consists of modular baskets that float on the water’s surface and provide nutrients. These create a coral-reef-like structure where shellfish, shrimp, and other organisms can live. In turn, the living organisms will increase water circulation benefitting the ecosystem as a whole.

A key benefit of the modular structure is that it can be adapted to different river sizes and depths. The design is also intended to beautify the urban environment in addition to providing benefits for the ecosystem.

Other recent innovations spotted by Springwise that promote marine life include eco-friendly coastal defences, and an underwater bike garage made from porous concrete that mussels and plants can stick to.