NESSIE
Name(s) of graduate(s):Ony Yan
Kooperationspartner: Cerberus Seaweed Systems / Kieler Meeresfarm
September 2024
Weißensee Kunsthochschule Berlin
Produktdesign
Master of Arts
Webseite
Description
Today, algae are mostly cultivated underwater on long plastic ropes — a method that leaves plastic waste in the oceans and is hardly usable for smaller operators, as it requires large-scale anchoring infrastructure. Yet algae hold enormous potential as a resource for biodegradable plastics, textiles, and biofuels. So why not make algae cultivation more accessible while also relieving pressure on our oceans?
NESSIE is an ecological, no-tech alternative: a stainless steel system made from a single sheet, designed to maximise algae growth. The smooth surface allows natural adhesion of the algae; the conical shape optimises sunlight exposure.
Instead of welded steel, it is produced flat from a single material and can be bent on site using 16 rivets — reducing costs, storage, and transport needs. NESSIE requires only one floatation ball for anchoring, blends harmoniously into the coastal landscape, and is fully recyclable.
Ony Yan
September 2024
Weißensee Kunsthochschule Berlin
Produktdesign
Master of Arts
Description
Today, algae are mostly cultivated underwater on long plastic ropes — a method that leaves plastic waste in the oceans and is hardly usable for smaller operators, as it requires large-scale anchoring infrastructure. Yet algae hold enormous potential as a resource for biodegradable plastics, textiles, and biofuels. So why not make algae cultivation more accessible while also relieving pressure on our oceans?
NESSIE is an ecological, no-tech alternative: a stainless steel system made from a single sheet, designed to maximise algae growth. The smooth surface allows natural adhesion of the algae; the conical shape optimises sunlight exposure.
Instead of welded steel, it is produced flat from a single material and can be bent on site using 16 rivets — reducing costs, storage, and transport needs. NESSIE requires only one floatation ball for anchoring, blends harmoniously into the coastal landscape, and is fully recyclable.