Chun Xu

 

It is difficult to ignore the poor living conditions in overcrowded refugee camps around the world. Despite humanitarian aid, many refugees are still living in vulnerable temporary shelters with no employment, income, or stable futures.

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The living bridge is designed as an intervention to establish a sustainable community for refugees. It is a physical connection between Greek islands and Turkish territory, and it is also a buffer between refugees’ past and future. A new model of humanitarian aid is designed for the bridge to redefine the relationship between asylum country and refugee. In addition to basic support, like food and semi-permanent shelter provided by the bridge, income through working in a high-tech factory is made available.

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Via introducing plastic recycling industry, a sustainable system would be set up to turn trash into cash. Plastic waste from food ration packages or daily activities could be recycled and utilized to maximize economic benefits. To run the system, digital fabrication could be an excellent tool to make it a reality. Recycled plastic as a cheap and flexible material could be robotic printed into furniture, houses, public facilities, etc. A durable and livable 3D printed community could provide a decent life for refugees on the bridge. With new vocational skills, the refugees could gain better chances for future employment, whether moving onward to a new geography, or returning to rebuild their hometown.

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The whole design is formed of three parts, including sustainable community, sustainable system, and sustainable tools.

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