November 4, 2016 / By Groupa Concrete
The habitat on global coastal lines is continuously under pressure from human influence. 35% of the worlds mangroves have already disappeared due to the greenhouse effect and if nothing is done, with time, more will follow. Thankfully, there are those out there who are working towards a long term goal with little impact on the ecosystem, like designer Sheng-Hung Lee.
His solution was to utilize the idea of concrete tetrapods used to guard coastlines against potential flooding and to turn them into pots for mangroves. Thus the concept of the TetraPOT came to be. The TetraPOT, unlike traditional tetrapods, is hollowed out with room for both water to go in and roots to grow out. A pre-seeded containermade from decomposable material is then placed at the top of the tetrapod where in 14 months the mangrove is able to reach maturity. Over time, these mangroves would connect with one another to create a natural defense line for the coast as well as provide a habitat for various animals.
For more information and an interview with the designer, check out the video below.