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Name of the submitted project or idea (in English or both English and your language)
The Akasango reef, an homage to the Japanese Red Coral
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URL of a video introducing the work(under 5 minutes)
https://youtu.be/7Q7lyNlADzA
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Detailed explanation of the submitted project or idea (in English or both English and your language)
Japan's iconography, culinary prowess, craftsmanship and geographical context have shown the world its deep connection with the Ocean. Fish and marine wonders are integral to Japan's cultural heritage. However, life underwater is under immense pressure. Fish populations are dwindling, and Japan's coral reefs, particularly around Okinawa, have suffered significantly due to climate change, pollution, and overfishing. The endangered species of red coral Akansago is a testimony of the fragility of the underwater world. Whilst efforts are underway to restore these vital ecosystems, more work is needed, signaling an urgent need for action to protect these invisible treasures.
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How does your work address the 3 P’s (for Planet, for People, for Profit) for Sustainability?
Through our work, we want to lead to a sustainable future that benefits the planet, its people, and economic systems alike.
For Planet
Our primary focus is on environmental restoration. By utilizing 3D-printing technology to create modular clay reef structures, we enhance the resilience and biodiversity of coral ecosystems. These structures mimic natural reef formations, providing habitats for marine life and promoting healthy ecosystems. Healthy coral reefs are crucial for biodiversity, serving as vital nurseries for many fish species and playing a key role in protecting our coast.
Our goal of restoring 1% of coastal coral reefs within the next decade reflects our commitment to planetary health.
For People
We actively engages local communities in every projects, fostering a sense of stewardship for marine environments. By collaborating with local organizations, we promote education and awareness about marine conservation, empowering communities to take part in restoration efforts. This community involvement not only enhances the longevity of our projects but also ensures that the benefits of healthier reefs—such as improved fish stocks and sustainable tourism—are shared among local populations
For Profit
While rrreefs is committed to environmental and social sustainability, we also recognize the importance of economic viability. Restoring coral reefs can support local fisheries and tourism, which are essential for many coastal economies. Our methods can lead to cost savings and new market opportunities for sustainable marine products. This approach demonstrates that ecological restoration can be economically beneficial, creating a win-win situation for the environment and local economies. -
Keywords
biodiversity, material, coral reefs
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If you have a website for your submitted project or idea, please provide the URL
https://www.rrreef.com
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If you have a social media account for your submitted project or idea, please provide the URL
https://www.instagram.com/rrreefs
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Special Prize Question 1: "Empowering nature to create a new loop”: How does your work strengthen or support nature’s ability to capture and convert waste into valuable resources? How does your work advance industry practices by introducing nature-positive alternatives?
At rrreefs, we introduce nature-positive alternatives in industry practices by integrating sustainable materials, such as clay, and innovative technologies into marine restoration efforts. By using 3D-printing technology to create reef structures, we aim to minimize the environmental footprint associated with traditional construction methods. This approach not only showcases ecological responsibility but can also reflects Japan’s state-of-the-art approach to precision and craftsmanship. The meticulous nature of 3D printing aligns with the high standards of quality and detail inherent in Japanese artisanship, creating a fusion of modern technology and traditional skills. We believe with the help of CRQLR we can challenge the status quo, and empower innovative approaches to rebuild coral reefs in Japan.
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Special Prize Question 2: “Regenerating ecosystems”: In what inspiring ways does your work contribute to the restoration and stabilization of natural ecosystems?
Solving the climate and biodiversity crisis is one of biggest and most urgent challenges of our times. We help coral reefs survive until we get there.
Working on regeneration and resilience of coral reef is at the core of our organisation. Our holistic approach, combining science, technologie, art and education allow us to tackle the problematic of reefs loss, and provide solutions to rebuild damaged reefs. By recreating the lost three-dimensionality, we provide a substrate for corals to settle and grow, whilst serving habitat for all marine life depending on coral structures. -
Special Prize Question 3: “Education and storytelling”: How does your work make complex bioeconomy concepts accessible and engaging?
We make complex bioeconomy concepts accessible and engaging through a combination of art, education, and storytelling. By showcasing our 3D-printed modular reef structures in exhibitions at museums, we can engage the public with the importance of coral reef restoration and the intricate connections within marine ecosystems. These artistic representations help to simplify ecological concepts, making them easier for the public to understand.
With the Akasango Reef, we aim to inspire the visitors of CRQLR AWARD with our vision of a healthy ocean and thriving coral reefs. Our reef regeneration projects, where baby corals settle and grow despite the ongoing climatic stressors, demonstrate the resilience of vulnerable ecosystems. We strongly believe that showcasing our work on such a global stage is a unique chance to amplify our impact, by reaching new audiences and encouraging stakeholders to prioritize environmental sustainability.
In addition to exhibitions, we utilize various platforms—such as conferences, creative workshops, and social media—to raise awareness about marine conservation and bioeconomy principles. By sharing relatable stories and engaging content, we highlight the urgency of protecting our oceans while fostering a sense of community involvement.
By combining creativity with science and engaging storytelling, we strive to conservation concepts relatable and actionable for diverse audiences, ultimately fostering a greater appreciation for the importance of sustainable practices in our oceans.
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The Akasango reef, an homage to the Japanese Red Coral
The Akasango Reef is a 200m² restoration project envisioned for the coast of Okinawa. It pays tribute to the exquisite red coral (Corallium Japonicum), celebrated for its use in delicate sculptures and jewelry during the Edo to Meiji eras (1600-1912), but now nearly extinct.