Geelong’s artificial reef design innovation reshaping global conversations on sustainability

July 1, 2025

Design / Environment / Technology /

An innovative Geelong-based design project -The Dell Eco Reef - an ocean-friendly artificial reef structure designed to restore coastal habitats, is currently on exhibit at the prestigious Trienal de Design de Covilhã in Portugal.

The project is one of two currently captivating international audiences, reinforcing the region’s growing reputation as a global leader in sustainable and creative innovation.

These international exhibitions support the City of Greater Geelong’s International Engagement Strategy and its role as a designated UNESCO City of Design, highlighting how local creativity is contributing to global conversations around sustainability, circularity and community resilience.

The Dell Eco Reef, created by Australian designer Alex Goad in collaboration with the City of Greater Geelong, has already been trialled in the waters off Clifton Springs. It presents a scalable, nature-positive solution to coastal erosion and habitat loss, using modular, marine-friendly structures to support biodiversity and environmental restoration.

Meanwhile, Perpetual Pigments, a research-led design project exploring pigment extraction from textile waste, is featured at the Biennale Internationale Design Saint-Étienne 2025 in France – one of the world’s most influential events focused on design and social innovation.

Perpetual Pigments, developed by Deakin University’s Institute for Frontier Materials, pioneers a groundbreaking approach to sustainability by transforming textile waste into vibrant pigments. Supported by Sustainability Victoria, this world-first research extracts colour from discarded natural fibre textiles, producing micropigments suitable for applications in art, fashion and design. Co-curated by Dr Russell Kennedy and Dr Tonya Meyrick, the project included collaboration with First Nations artists who used the pigments to create works showcased during Geelong Design Week 2023.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj notes “The projects exemplify the creativity and ingenuity of the region’s design and research sectors.

“The Dell Eco Reef and Perpetual Pigments projects are outstanding examples of how Geelong designers are using creativity to address environmental and social challenges.

“Exhibiting in Portugal and France places Geelong on the world stage, forging global connections and creating new pathways for collaboration, investment and shared learning.

Environment & Circular Economy chair Councillor Elise Wilkinson added “Geelong’s design innovation is reshaping global conversations on sustainability.

“These design projects’ innovative fusion of science, design and culture not only addressed environmental challenges but also celebrated identity and expression aligning strongly with the City of Greater Geelong’s values and its leadership as a UNESCO City of Design.

“Together, these international exhibitions strengthen ties with other UNESCO Creative Cities and demonstrate Geelong’s ongoing commitment to innovation-led economic development, cultural diplomacy and global design leadership.”

Image. Trienal de Design de Covilha. Credit: City Greater Geelong

15th January 2025 - Construction commences on Albany Artificial Reef Project

26th April 2021 - Artificial reef being installed off Perth’s Ocean Reef

17th July 2020 - Research shows artificial reefs benefit the environment and recreational fishing

28th February 2019 - Gold Coast multi-million dollar artificial reef project launched

27th May 2015 - New artificial reefs begin deployment off Hervey Bay

22nd July 2013 - New artificial reef for Shoalhaven

28th February 2011 - Central Coast Residents Back Artificial Reef Plan

25th May 2010 - Pay-as-you-surf artificial reef for the Gold Coast?

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