Urban Futures Booklet | Page 56

URBAN FUTURES

Arch _ Manu - BioShelter

Key capabilities
> Computational design > Robotic and digital fabrication > Biodesign
Differentiators
> Proprietary technology in design and fabrication > Tried and tested product
Key customers
> Councils , commercial harbour operators and private land owners
Key partnerships
> Landcom > Infrastructure NSW > Sydney Institute of Marine
Science
Quality accreditations and awards
> Bruce Mau Award for Life-Centred Design
> Tested and approved by marine biologist
Sustainable development goals
> Industry , innovation and infrastructure
> Sustainable cities and communities
archmanu . com
Protecting and restoring inner city harbours with an artificial seawall to enhance marine biodiversity and mitigate climate change consequences
Research & Development Project
With the increasing need for space in coastal cities , shorelines are moving outwards to increase availability . A byproduct of these processes includes the destruction of natural habitats for marine life , diminished biodiversity , and polluted rivers and harbours .
BioShelter uses site-specific marine biology data to generate computationally designed models and produce robotic 3D fabricated artificial seawalls using custommade sustainable materials . BioShelter restores natural habitats for native species by improving the water quality of a harbour . This was demonstrated by its proof-ofconcept research in 2019 in the Sydney Harbour and a first product implementation commissioned for the development of the new Sydney Fish Market to be completed in September 2024 .
BioShelter also has potential defence applications , particularly in maintaining and restoring naval bases . By enhancing marine biodiversity and water quality , BioShelter can contribute to the sustainability and operational readiness of naval facilities , ensuring these critical infrastructures are resilient to environmental challenges .
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