Project Archipelago: A Design Proposal for Bioenhancement of Marine Infrastructures

Project Archipelago is a design proposal exploring the application of integrative design principles on the adaptation of existing or planned human-made marine infrastructures in order to enhance marine ecosystems and increase biomass. Utilizing advanced fabrication systems of construction and autonomous or remote operated robotics and analytics, the proposal leverages the existing structures of decommissioned oil platforms as catalysts for ecological restoration and platforms for scientific research. Standard rig structures have vertical jacket legs extending from the ocean surface to the sea floor. Plankton, the larval form of most marine life, exists throughout the water column and requires surface for settlement and development. By adding modular biocement structures, the surface area is increased, boosting populations. Computational and iterative designs of shape and texture provide opportunities to test concepts. Additional opportunity emerges for remote scientific monitoring of growth, species identification, and adaptation and intervention. Utilization of analog as well as AI-driven monitoring systems enable real-time analysis of environmental conditions, ensuring adaptability and efficiency in these restorative interventions. Leveraging digital technologies such as 3D printing using large scale architectural printers, computational design, the project transforms decommissioned oil platforms into active research sites for marine observation and exploration. Furthermore, the planned introduction of 20,000 wind farms in the north sea could be an opportunity for intentional design and further research on the potential for ecological enhancement within and surrounding these infrastructures. The project proposes a hybrid model of design, where function, fabrication and computational intelligence are used to create dynamic, responsive marine environments.