What We do
Artificial Nests and Their Limitations
These limitations emphasize the need for an artificial nest that is durable, biologically safe, and environmentally sustainable.
Wood Artificial Nests
Artificial nests from wood typically last about two to three years in Thailand’s tropical conditions. Consequently, these nests are replaced constantly. Wood nests are built by cutting down trees, contributing to deforestation. ​​​
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Earthern Jar Artificial Nests
At Yao Noi, communities discovered that hornbills began using earthen jars. However, the dimensions of these jars hinder the hornbill chicks from learning to fly.
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Fiberglass Artificial Nests
Artificial nests made from composite materials enhance durability, including one using resin and glass fiber as reinforcement. However, glass fiber posed safety concerns over time as it can cause irritation and harm to hornbills. Additionally, glass fiber was also not as environmentally friendly.
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Image credit: Thailand Hornbill Research Foundation.
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Our Innovation
Homes for Hornbills is an artificial nesting system designed to support hornbill conservation through material innovation. The nest is engineered using composite material technology to create a structure that is environmentally friendly, biologically safe, and durable under tropical conditions. This approach demonstrates how material science and conservation can work together to address both hornbill endangerment and plastic waste.
Upcycling Plastic Waste
Homes for Hornbills is designed around the principles of the circular economy, transforming plastic waste into long-lasting conservation infrastructure. Instead of using virgin, fossil-fuel-based materials, we upcycle post-consumer PET plastic bottles and repurpose them as resin. ​
Approximately 418 discarded plastic bottles are used to construct a single artificial nest. By converting plastic waste into durable nesting structures, the project not only reduces environmental pollution but also supports hornbills and restoration.
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