Ourland

Ourland explores the possibility of using phytoremediation process as a design opportunity in a large-scale public domain development. The project turns phytoremediation challenges into unique design opportunities, and produce a site specific, engaging and community-based design solution. The site is located in the white bay power station. Historical activities include Abattoir, Military port, Bombs storage etc... the land has layering up all the contaminants. Currently, the land is one of the biggest underdeveloped lands around Sydney Harbour. Considering of a high commercial and economic value to not only Balmain Community but also the whole Sydney. However, the site is significantly degraded. Professor SueAnne Ware said, ‘Phytoremediation is a low cost, plant and solar energy driven, soil remediation technique.’ In comparison with other remediation methods like chemical oxidation, excavation and cap isolation, those are much expensive and cause more carbon burden. Phytoremediation is the best choice, but the challenge with phytoremediation is that it is time-consuming which might take up to 15-20 years. My graduate project is to explore how to make people and local flora and fauna as active agents in the phytoremediation process? How can we use time to make this period interesting and energetic for the whole public?