Project Statement

Sea barren ground is a global problem that accelerates global warming and threatens coastal cities in many countries.

The indigenous people of Sagye-ri, where the sea has become barren, are fearful of the increasing damage from marine disasters and are facing difficulties in major industries such as fishing.

In order to address the issue of barren grounds in the sea, we propose a vertical strategy that connects the entire site from inland to coast to seabed, rather than relying on temporary solutions focused only on the shallow seabed.

The implemented strategies will accumulate over time, creating a virtuous cycle for the entire community adjacent to the beach, resulting in a sustainable environment and industrial system.

Project Narrative

Background:

Located on the southernmost island of South Korea, Sagye-ri has seen a staggering 70-fold increase in damage from marine disasters as the sea has become barren, with its capacity to absorb carbon dioxide decreasing by a remarkable 626 tons. Furthermore, the "haenyeo", recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, are at risk of disappearing as their fishery yields have dropped by over 40%. This issue extends beyond Sagye-ri, posing significant risks to coastal areas worldwide.

Based on our understanding of the process of sea barren ground, we believe it is essential to address the fundamental context rather than inevitable natural disasters or superficial situations. Therefore, instead of the temporary solutions limited to the shallow seabed that have been implemented so far, we need a solution that connects inland, coast, and seabed. Our proposed vertical solution focuses on the circulation of water and organic matter flowing downstream from upstream, creating a sustainable sea forest. This enhances Sagye-ri's ability to autonomously respond to disasters and contributes to solving the issue of sea barren ground.

Strategy

Strategy 1: Restoring Organic Matter Supply in the Inland

The concrete installed to prevent river flooding and overflow causes calcium carbonate to be released into the sea, covering and destroying the rocks where seaweed should inhabit. Thus, the first inland strategy involves the natural restoration of rivers by removing or retreating the concrete that covers the areas near the rivers. Restoring rivers from concrete not only removes direct sources of pollution but also establishes a foundation for overall site health by allowing healthy organic matter to flow downstream with the water. Specifically, our goal is to utilize the distinctive basalt features of the site to implement natural levees, thus also achieving a filtering effect.

Strategy 2: Enhancing Nutrients along the Coast

The coastal roads installed for beach viewing have disrupted the coastal forests and dunes, causing ecological destruction. When the coastal ecosystem is destroyed, it can significantly impact the habitat of seaweeds as the supply of nutrients to the seabed diminishes. Therefore, it is essential to partially retreat the coastal roads and secure ecological corridors to connect ecosystems. Following this, we will transition to the stabilization phase by installing sand fences. Vegetation will be planted in sand fences made of basalt to stabilize the sand, allow waves to carry various organic materials, and form a unique landscape for the site.

Strategy 3: Expanding Sea Forests in the Seabed

In a specific area of the site, sea barren grounds are not occurring, and this is due to the presence of underwater arch terrain. Underwater arches provide suitable habitats for seaweeds by utilizing areas where calcium carbonate does not accumulate on the bedrock, making them ideal for protecting sea forests. We aim to provide habitats for seaweeds through seaweed arch reefs made of basalt, inspired by the shape of these underwater arches, and gradually expanding their distribution. Furthermore, through economic integration with the indigenous people engaged in fishing and tourism, we aim to ensure consistent management of sea forests. This enriched sea forests triggers a virtuous cycle that protects the entire site.