Scientists are confident that their pioneering “Biosolar Leaf” technology can work 100 trees, using only one surface area – something important in big cities. An experimental technology to purify the air in the “world’s first” method to combat pollution will be introduced, it has been announced.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 4.2 million people die each year from air pollution (the environment) and 91 percent of the world’s population lives in areas that exceed WHO guidelines. Air pollution is the world’s top killer, a new global air quality index released last year.
With this in mind, Imperial College London has partnered with biochemical technology startup Arboria to test its bio solar sheet technology to offset its West London White City campus, as well as demonstrate to the world how sustainable solutions can actually solve today’s critical environmental and social problems Condition.
Researchers in Arboria have developed a planting method that allows microscopic plants such as micro legs and phytoplankton to grow into large solar panel-like structures that can be placed anywhere on the roof of a built-up city to improve the land, building, and surrounding air quality.
Inspired by the natural process of photosynthesis, bio solar panels allow microorganisms to absorb CO2 from the surrounding region and re-create respiratory oxygen. And these are at the same time the other focus of Arboria – helping to produce a nutritious, sustainable plant protein with little environmental impact.
“This pilot plant will add sustainable healthy food while purifying the air, producing oxygen, and removing carbon dioxide from the surrounding environment.” Arboria founder and CEO Julian Melchieri said, “When I founded Arboria, my goal was to solve complex food-related problems while tackling climate change.”
Chandelier light stimulates the photosynthesis of microorganisms in leaf-shaped modules, absorbs CO2 inside, and returns oxygen to the house. Chandeliers currently enjoy a permanent collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Melchiori has already had some success with the world’s first living Bionic chandelier, the ‘Exhale’ project, using the same technology.
Bio solar panels on the other hand use natural sunlight and are unlimitedly scalable, so there is no need to create space for panels in crowded busy cities. Instead, they can use the existing roof space that is not being used.
Added Professor Neil Alford of Imperial College, “Air pollution is one of London’s most pressing challenges, and Imperial is committed to finding sustainable and stable solutions to this threat.” “This collaboration with Arboria is an exceptional opportunity to showcase Clintek’s strength.”
