Project Description

This research-by-design thesis explores bioplastics as a remediation material for the rehabilitation of contaminated landscape. The proposed site is of a contaminated area of wetlands along the St. Lawrence Seaway at Contrecoeur, Quebec designated as a National Wildlife Area. It would attempt to improve the current environmental conditions brought on by pollutants correlated with the City of Montreal effluent, the wetlands surrounding agricultural landcover, and a large metal manufacturing and recycling industry adjacent to the site. These varied industries are placing an environmental burden on an adjacent wildlife area and the vitality of the ecosystem. The thesis uses the typology of the ice fishing hut as a capsule made from locally sourced bioplastics embedded with plant seeds and nutrients that would release when the bioplastics dissolve during spring thaw. These seeds are known as bioremediators and native to the region. Therefore, my thesis question asks how can temporary architecture use the analogy of pharmaceuticals as a means of rehabilitation of contaminated sites; can architecture act as a pill?