Ready to meet the tree of the future? Before shouting anathema: peace! Obviously I don't mean "this is what will replace the trees". But they could give us a big hand. Scientists from the University of Belgrade have developed LIQUID 3, an urban photo-bioreactor that uses water and microalgae to produce oxygen.
They call it a "liquid tree", given that it contains 600 liters of water and uses microalgae to capture carbon dioxide and produce oxygen through photosynthesis, just like its “solid” counterpart.
Why microalgae?
The answer is simple: they are 10 to 50 times more efficient than a tree. As mentioned, the creators of LIQUID 3 don't want to replace forests or planting plans, but use this system to fill urban corners where space is limited.
In Belgrade, for example, trees struggle to do their job well, while microalgae are not affected by the intense levels of pollution in the Serbian city.
An “alternate” tree to lend a hand
How do you explain Bojan Bojic, head of the Department of Social Affairs and Development Projects of Stari Grad, the LIQUID 3 photo-bioreactor is a cutting-edge biotechnological solution for air purification and oxygen production.
It will be part of a bench equipped with a mobile phone charger and a solar panel, thanks to which the special street furniture lights up during the night. As always, I'll show you the video first.
Huge potential
In the not-too-distant future, we may see things like LIQUID 3 integrated into our urban landscapes as a common element. Imagine streets, parks and squares populated by this "tree bench" which, in addition to offering a place to rest and recharge your smartphone, helps to make the air cleaner and more breathable.
A step forward, if not in the direction of more sustainable cities, at least in that of less unlivable cities.
