URBAN STRATEGY WATER HYACINTH USAGE Much research is being conducted into utilising the weed rather than eradicating due to the difficulties in trying to completely erase the weed. Due to the high levels of cellulose, low levels of Lignin, its rigid structure and high levels of potassium and nitrogen it has been utilised for profitable gain in many third world countries. The plant can be dried and weaved into crafts which can be sold thus providing an industry for small rural communities. It can also be processed and converted into bio-fuel, bio-fertilizer or bio-feed hence providing a sustainable source of income. Furthermore, the compounds in the plant once broken down can be further upgraded into individual elements such as Hydrogen, Nitrogen or Potassium which can be used as fuel or in the chemical industry, again providing a profitable income in a sustainable way whilst empowering communities and creating a new industry. Hence it can be seen that the weed which is often seen as a curse is in-fact a goldmine when efficiently utilised instead of simply being removed and disposed of.
PROPOSAL At an urban level I propose to create various ‘hubs’ throughout Kochi which will convert the water hyacinths into profitable products. By paying locals to gather the weeds and bring them to various drop-of points throughout the city and convert them into profitable products, a sustainable economy can be set up over a 30 year period and eventually eradicate the weed whilst allowing the community to revive the waterways. At site level I have chosen to focus on the bio-fuel and bio-fertiliser production hence will provide a bio-diesel/fertiliser plant. The proposal aims to clear the Kochis’ backwaters whilst providing an improved environment, improved health, social capital and wealth to the surrounding rural communities. The site will host the bio-fuel plant, research facilities to further gain an understanding of the weed and its uses; whilst also providing farm space for the bio-fertiliser to be used. Consequently allowing the community to reconnect to the water and understand its importance and wealth of provisions thus eventually improving the liveability of Kochi. Shannan Kamalaneson Architecture Portfolio
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