Air-Purifying Green Facade: An Innovative Solution for Urban Pollution

Introduction

The air quality in cities is a growing concern as the world's population migrates to urban areas. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 4.2 million deaths occur annually, as a result of air pollution. With these staggering numbers, researchers are exploring innovative solutions to reduce pollution and improve air quality. One of the promising approaches towards controlling urban pollution is the installation of Green Facades.

What is a Green Facade?

A Green Facade is a framework of climbing plants or a vertically suspended garden constructed on the exterior of buildings. The concept of green facades is not new, but they have become popular in recent years as an eco-friendly solution to the challenges of urbanization. The system typically consists of a trellis, cables or mesh support for vegetation growth, and a modular irrigation system as per requirements. The Green Facade not only improves the aesthetic look of the building of the cities but also brings physical and psychological health benefits to its residents.

How do Green Facades purify the air?

Green Facades, also known as Living Walls, work as filters for polluted air. The plants absorb pollutants, which are then broken down into harmless elements. The pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide, are absorbed in the leaves, stems, and roots of the plant. Then microbes in the soil break down the harmful compounds. This process of absorption and breakdown helps in reducing air pollution levels.

Benefits of a Green Facade

Besides purifying the air, Green Facades are beneficial in many ways.

1. Reduction in Urban temperatures: Green Facade able to reduce the temperature of the surrounding area as it shades the building from direct sunlight in the summer months.
2. Reduction in Noise pollution: Plant leaves can absorb, deflect and refract sound waves, and thus a good avenue for reducing noise pollution. A green facade can reduce noise levels of 41-50 decibels when installed properly.
3. Enhanced Air Quality: Alongside the purification of air, the plants absorb Carbon-dioxide and release oxygen increasing the air quality for the inhabitants of the surrounding area.
4. Improved Mental Health: Being able to view and interact with nature is scientifically proven to improve mental health, Building tenants are more likely to remain in a building with greenery outside their windows or balconies.
5. Esthetic improvement: A well-designed facade is aesthetical; it is pleasing to the eyes and is a beautiful sight for passersby.

Examples of Green Facade installations

Green Facade has been installed in many cities around the world. Some of the famous installations are:

1. One Central Park, Sydney: The installation is a mix of vertical gardens, hanging gardens, and green roofs, which result in 50% of the building's surface being covered in plants.
2. Bosco Verticale, Milan: It is an architectural project with two residential skyscrapers of 111 m and 76 m height that host 900 trees, 5,000 shrubs, and 11,000 perennial plants onsite.
3. Zamora Teran Foundation, Nicaragua: The Foundation has designed a green facade implemented in schools to improve the breathing conditions of the surrounding areas. Trees have been added to the facade of such schools.

FAQs

Q. What are the upfront costs of installing a Green Facade?

A. The costs depend on the size of the facade, the types of plants used, and the location of the installation. Generally, the upfront cost ranges between $70 to $150 per square foot. The cost can be offset by the long-term benefits of reduced energy costs and improved health benefits for the surrounding inhabitants.

Q. How much maintenance is required for a Green Facade?

A. The maintenance of a Green Facade depends on the type of plant species and the climate in which it is located. Besides regular watering, pruning and checking the irrigation system, they require minimal maintenance.

Q. Do Green Facades work in all types of buildings?

A. Green Facades can work on most types of buildings, including commercial, residential, and institutional buildings. But the installation and care required for the plants can be different from one building to another.

Q. Do Green Facades improve the energy efficiency of the building?

A. Yes, Green Facades provide shade to buildings, and this shade can reduce the heat gain that occurs through windows and walls. This reduces the energy needed to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, reducing the energy costs.

Conclusion

Green Facades are an innovative, sustainable solution to the problems of urban pollution. They provide benefits like air purification, noise reduction, and aesthetic improvement, among others. Urban areas worldwide can benefit from the installation of Green Facades all while creating a healthier and more green environment. Additionally, reducing carbon emissions and harmful chemicals from the air will have a positive impact on the atmosphere in the future years to come.