REGEN-C

Idea projektu

"Regenerating Marine Ecosystems through Biotechnological Architecture"

The project is a Marine Biodiversity Research Center designed to address the rapidly degrading marine habitats of Alexandria, particularly coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangroves, which are threatened by human activities and rising sea levels. The design introduces an innovative system that uses bacterial biofilms harvested from the building’s perforated mesh facade. These biofilms produce organic nutrients that are used to generate artificial marine habitats.

The building features a circular profile, with a central cylindrical tower where bacterial biofilm is stored, and pipes that distribute nutrients to different parts of the structure. The tower and the surrounding space utilize advanced robotics and drones to collect bacteria, monitor growth, and deploy nutrient-based habitats into the sea to restore vital ecosystems.

The project merges sustainability, biotechnology, and architecture to create a functional and adaptive system that directly addresses the pressing environmental issues of marine ecosystem degradation while also fostering scientific research and community engagement in El Max, Alexandria.

Popis projektu

Located in El Max, Alexandria, the project bridges culture, innovation, and sustainability, contributing to the protection and restoration of the region’s vulnerable marine ecosystems. The Marine Biodiversity Research Center is designed to address the rapid degradation of marine ecosystems in Alexandria, including coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangroves, due to human impact and sea-level rise. The project focuses on integrating biotechnology and architectural design to create a sustainable system for regenerating these ecosystems. The center incorporates bacterial biofilm harvesting technology, where bacteria grown on a mesh facade produce vital nutrients used to form artificial marine habitats. These habitats are then deployed into the sea to restore marine biodiversity.

The building is futuristic yet contextually sensitive, with a circular form and biological features inspired by the natural processes of marine life. It includes cutting-edge robotic systems for bacteria collection and drones for habitat deployment, transforming the building into a dynamic space for scientific research and conservation efforts.

Technické informace

Site Location:

Location: El Max, Alexandria, Egypt

Site Size: Approximately 9,980 m²

Context: The site is located along the Mediterranean coast, near traditional fishing zones and urban developments, providing direct access to marine ecosystems that require restoration.

Building Design:

Building Shape: Circular profile with tiered floors to allow for increased functionality and to accommodate the cylindrical biofilm tower at the center.

Building Height: 3 levels above ground and 2 basements, with the upper levels dedicated to research and habitat creation processes, while the basements house bacterial collection, storage, and maintenance facilities.

Structural Materials: Reinforced concrete for the base and main support structure, with steel frames for the exterior facade. The mesh facade will be made of stainless steel or galvanized steel for corrosion resistance in the marine environment.

Bacterial Biofilm System:

Facade System: A perforated metal mesh that covers the building's outer surface, where bacterial biofilms naturally grow and form over time. The mesh allows for optimal exposure to sunlight and wind, essential for bacterial growth.

Bacteria Growth: Estimated to produce up to 50 kg of bacteria per 100 m² surface area of mesh. Bacteria convert atmospheric carbon dioxide into organic carbon and other nutrients.

Harvesting Mechanism: Robotic arms and automated systems are used to collect the biofilm. Drones carry the collected bacteria to storage units or deploy them directly into the sea for habitat creation.

Nutrient Production: Each gram of dry bacterial biomass can produce about 0.5 grams of organic nutrients (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus) suitable for marine ecosystems.

Habitat Creation and Deployment:

Artificial Habitat Materials: Marine-grade concrete, porous ceramic, and recycled marine waste are used to create artificial habitats such as coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangrove structures.

Habitat Size and Coverage: Each artificial habitat module is designed to be modular, with a size range of 1 m² to 3 m², depending on habitat type. Each 1 m² habitat requires approximately 2.5 kg of nutrients for optimal growth.

Deployment System: Drones are used to transport and deploy the artificial habitats directly into marine ecosystems, specifically targeting areas where habitat loss is most critical.

Sustainability and Energy:

Energy Efficiency: The building is designed with solar panels integrated into the roof to generate renewable energy. Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems are implemented to minimize water consumption.

Climate Adaptability: The building's design incorporates floating foundations and hydraulic columns to adjust land height in response to sea-level rise predictions, ensuring long-term resilience.

Research and Public Engagement:

Laboratories and Workshops: The center will include scientific laboratories for marine research, workshops for creating artificial habitats, and public exhibition spaces to educate visitors on the importance of marine biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.

Educational Programs: The center will host lectures, workshops, and community programs on marine conservation, sustainability, and the impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems.

Timeline and Phases:

Phase 1: Bacterial biofilm harvesting and nutrient production (ongoing process as the building is constructed and operational).

Phase 2: Habitat creation and testing in fish hatcheries (implemented alongside the biofilm system).

Phase 3: Public engagement and research operations (after functional habitats are deployed and tested).