What to know about investing in 3D-printed, eco-friendly seawalls

Product Innovation & Functionality - Kind Designs' seawalls mimic mangroves and marine habitats, protecting coastal communities and sequestering carbon [1] - The seawalls function like reefs, dissipating 47% of wave energy and improving water quality [2] - Each panel sequesters approximately 40 lbs (18.14 kg) of carbon per year, equivalent to a tree [4] - The seawalls attract native species and create artificial reefs [4] Materials & Manufacturing - Kind Designs uses rapid setting cement with a 32% lower CO2 footprint than traditional Portland cement [3] - The materials are non-metallic and non-toxic [3] - The seawalls are 3D printed, significantly reducing construction time [2] - 3D printing allows for faster production, with a curing time of 3 days compared to a month for traditional seawalls [7] Cost & Market Adoption - The panels cost about $30 per square foot, comparable to traditional panels [6] - Living seawalls eliminate the need for expensive environmental offsets required by permitting agencies for traditional seawalls [6] - Coastal developers find the seawalls efficient and cost-effective [5] Investment & Funding - Kind Designs has received a total of $11.5 million in VC funding from various investors, including Florida Opportunity Fund, Anthroposine Ventures, Go Ventures, Overlay Capital, and Mark Cuban Companies [5]