Coral reefs restored with 3D printing; technology impresses Santos delegation in Hong Kong

3D printing in Hong Kong creates artificial reefs that help regenerate degraded marine ecosystems; the technology drew the attention of the Brazilian delegation (Alexandre Lopes/AT)

The final stage of the Missão Internacional Porto & Mar 2026, organized by Grupo Tribuna , began on Monday (1st) with a visit to Hong Kong Science Park, one of Asia’s leading technology and innovation hubs, bringing together hundreds of startups, technology companies, research centers, and projects focused on developing solutions for various sectors of the economy.

Throughout the morning, Brazilian business leaders, executives, and public officials were introduced to several initiatives developed within the complex, which operates in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, sustainability, industrial automation, and digital transformation.

Among the various presentations, a technology aimed at restoring marine environments attracted the greatest interest from the delegation.

The project uses 3D printing to create artificial reefs capable of supporting the regeneration of degraded marine ecosystems. The solution has been developed by companies and researchers connected to Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem and employs structures made from marine-life-compatible materials that serve as a foundation for coral attachment and growth.

The components feature digitally designed shapes intended to encourage the colonization of marine organisms and increase the survival rates of transplanted corals. In some projects developed in the region, the artificial reefs are produced in terracotta through 3D printing, enabling the creation of complex surfaces that replicate characteristics found in natural environments.

The technology gained prominence following severe climate-related events that affected Hong Kong’s coastal areas and caused significant damage to local marine ecosystems. Studies conducted in the region have reported high survival rates among corals attached to these 3D-printed structures, reinforcing the solution’s potential for environmental restoration projects.

Installation work of the structures in the ocean: international companies seek Chinese infrastructure (Reproduction)

International origins

Another aspect that caught the attention of the participants of the Missão Internacional Porto & Mar 2026 was the international origin of some of these initiatives.

One of the companies presented during the visit originated in Italy and chose Hong Kong as a platform for expanding its business operations in Asia, leveraging the local innovation environment to develop projects related to 3D printing, advanced engineering, and sustainability.

The presence of foreign companies within Science Park reinforces a characteristic observed throughout the mission: China’s ability to attract international talent, businesses, and investments to research and development environments.

More than a technology center, Hong Kong Science Park operates as an ecosystem dedicated to generating innovation at scale. The complex is home to thousands of professionals and hundreds of companies working collaboratively on projects involving applied technology, science, and business development.

Components manufactured using 3D printers create surfaces that mimic the characteristics of natural environments (Reproduction)

Integrated approach

For members of the delegation led by Grupo Tribuna , the visit provided an opportunity to observe how innovation and sustainability are being addressed together across different parts of Asia.

The use of 3D printing for environmental restoration was seen as one of the most symbolic examples of this new approach, demonstrating that technologies initially associated with industry can also be applied to tackle challenges related to ecosystem preservation and the recovery of areas impacted by human activity.

Roberto Clemente Santini, Adilson Júnior, Eduardo Freire and Heber Spina Borlenghi (Reproduction)

“We were able to bring a large delegation to China, and I am certain that what we have seen here can contribute to the development of our region. The Port of Santos is the largest in Brazil and faces significant challenges. Beyond the port sector itself, we learned a great deal about technology, and it can improve the quality of our port, generating more jobs and development”, said Roberto Clemente Santini, CEO of TV Tribuna .

“They view the city of Santos as a true business partner. More than that, they see opportunities to further strengthen these relationships, and the Legislative Branch plays a fundamental role in this partnership. The Chinese also face challenges, but here they bring together universities and professors to create solutions”, said Adilson Júnior, President of the Santos City Council.

“Monday’s agenda was extremely productive, and we learned about yet another advancement they have here in China. The country has positively surprised me. I did not expect what we are seeing, and China is truly far ahead in terms of technology. I am certain there are many ideas that I can take back and apply in Brazil”, said Eduardo Freire, CEO of Grupo Yamam.

“It is very rewarding to witness all this development, with such organization, technology, and logistics. But the most important aspect is the people. The Chinese people are humble, hardworking, and highly disciplined, and the success of everything we have seen is closely linked to that discipline. It is truly impressive to see”, said Heber Spina Borlenghi, Executive Director of Grupo Cesari.