EcoShell

Yingfei Zhuo

Short description

EcoShell is a sustainable building material designed to address environmental challenges while providing a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for coastal buildings. This innovative project transforms discarded oyster shells and fish bones into durable exterior tiles, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials. EcoShell is unique in that it uses abundant marine waste. Every year, the seafood industry discards millions of tons of oyster shells, which pose a significant environmental risk if left in landfills or the ocean.
Oyster shells are naturally resistant to salt corrosion, making them ideal for coastal applications. Binders extracted from fish bones act as a biodegradable adhesive, which, together with powdered oyster shells, fuse into a cohesive and strong tile. This combination not only increases the durability and longevity of the tiles but also ensures that they are environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
The texture and color of EcoShell tiles can be customized to specific building needs, with molds changed to create unique and aesthetically pleasing surfaces. The appearance of the tiles looks similar to concrete, but is significantly lighter, making installation easier and reducing structural loads. In terms of construction, EcoShell features a user-friendly hanging system that simplifies the installation process. Tiles can be easily installed and removed for easy maintenance and replacement.
EcoShell is a unique blend of sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility. It works with local volunteer environmental projects to address the issue of discarded oyster shells. This holistic approach reflects the practical application of sustainability principles and demonstrates EcoShell's ecological commitment.