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On World Oceans Day, we take a look at how Hong Kong entrepreneur Vriko Yu's startup ArchiReef combines marine biology with 3D printing to create reef structures made from natural materials that help corals to grow better
Not many people realise that Hong Kong has corals, but its waters are actually home to more hard coral species than the entire Caribbean Sea.
Coral reefs serve as a habitat for other plants and animals to live. They also act as a buffer to protect our coastlines from waves, storms and floods. In turn, this protects our property and lives. In Hong Kong, corals are coming under threat, mostly due to pollution and human activity.
This is where ArchiReef comes in.
The startup engineers eco-friendly solutions that accelerate the restoration of marine ecosystems such as coral reefs. Founded in September 2020 by Vriko Yu and David Baker as a spin-out company from The University of Hong Kong, it uses 3D printing to create reef tiles from natural materials to help corals grow better and recover faster.
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“Our reef tiles act as the coral’s strong roots to secure survivorship and longevity,” says Yu, the startup’s CEO.
Before starting ArchiReef, Yu and Baker discussed ways to mitigate the effects of climate change. “[David] questioned why shouldn’t we focus on ‘renovating’ the degraded seafloor with tiles, much like renovating our bathroom floor,” says Yu. “And just like that, the foundation of ArchiReef was formulated.”
The startup’s reef tiles are said to be four times more effective in keeping corals alive than other options, which has led to knocks on its doors from potential clients outside of Hong Kong. Recently, the startup expanded to Abu Dhabi and is currently working to deploy its technology there.
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