Algae
There is lots of talk about green buildings, but what if they were actually green?
ecoLogicStudio, a London architectural and design firm created a 430 ft sq. gazebo called the Urban Algae Folly at Expo 2015. The Folly produces oxygen and absorbs considerable amounts of carbon dioxide with algae-filled plastic serving as a living 'skin'.
The Folly is made of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), a transparent plastic material. Its hollow interior is filled with water and spirulina, a type of algae often used as a dietary supplement. The growth of the algae depends on sunlight and temperature.
Algae and other marine plants make 70% of the world’s oxygen. The Folly produces about 4.4 pounds of oxygen per day and can also suck about 8.8 pounds of carbon dioxide from the air per day. This is compared with a tree which absorbs only about .132 pounds.
Algae has also been used in a number of other recent urban innovations. French biochemist Pierre Calleja created a prototype for a 'smog-eating' street lamp, which uses bioluminescent microalgae to light streets while absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen.
This article was originally published as 'A cloak of algae' by BRE Buzz on 13 Sept 2016 written by Sheila Swan.
--BRE Buzz
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Pop-up electric vehicle charge points
EV power sources: first you see them, then you don't!
Organisation addresses fire safety culture change and competence.
The Analytic Hierarchy Process
Using mathematics and psychology to make unbiased, complex decisions.
Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme
High levels of mica and pyrite found in aggregate used for Irish homes.
Organisation offers mobile app to its members.
Variable refrigerant flow markets
BSRIA explores US share of 2020 VRF market.
New fire safety requirement comes into force.
Different types of bridges are meant to move.
A logical approach to handling the internal voice of self doubt.
First fashionable in the US, decorative metal has become globally desirable.
Helping communities preserve and enhance historic environments.
Creating comfortable climates despite extreme temperatures.