What environmental benefits does the new construction method offer?

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Environmental Benefits of Hydrantula's Coastal Construction Method

Hydrantula's modular coastal construction method offers environmental benefits primarily through its design that serves as a habitat for marine life and its reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional concrete structures. The system's open frame allows wave energy to pass through, minimising seabed disturbance, and its submerged plastic surfaces become colonised by marine organisms over time, functioning as an artificial reef.
Habitat Creation for Marine Life

The structures are specifically designed to function as habitats for marine life. Unlike solid foundations that can seal off the seabed, Hydrantula's open frame design permits wave energy to flow through. This characteristic, combined with the submerged plastic surfaces, encourages colonisation by marine organisms, effectively creating an artificial reef ecosystem. This approach aligns with ongoing research in Singapore exploring hybrid coastal solutions that integrate natural elements with engineered structures.
Reduced Life-Cycle Carbon Emissions

Hydrantula estimates that its structures have a significantly lower life-cycle carbon footprint than traditional reinforced concrete alternatives. The company projects approximately 5 tonnes of CO2 per metre over a 60-year lifespan for its structures. This contrasts with conventional reinforced concrete, which is estimated to have a life-cycle carbon impact of around 25 tonnes per metre over the same period. These estimations are based on the company's assessment according to ISO 14040/14044 standards.

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What environmental benefits does the new construction method offer?

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