FibreBroads

The FibreBroads project aims to investigate how crops grown in wetlands (known as paludiculture) could provide a sustainable income for growers based in the Broads. Paludiculture has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, compared to the emissions associated with dryland agricultural use. 

The project is led by the Broads Authority and funded by the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), and involves partners including Norfolk County Council, Norfolk Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (NFWAG), Hudson Architects, Wetland Products Foundation, Norwich University of Arts and global impact firm Palladium. 

Academics and MArch students within Architecture and Interior Design experimented with paludiculture materials, producing details, models, maquettes, elements, furniture and mock ups which were exhibited on campus. Their work was also featured in Dezeen.

The team also worked to develop a curriculum about paludiculture and associated architectural and fashion products. This curriculum and the material experimentations were disseminated in academic media, conferences, and a symposium held at Norwich University of the Arts in February 2025.