The Artificial Tree: Integrating Microalgae into Sustainable Architecture for CO<sub>2</sub> Capture and Urban Efficiency—A Comprehensive Analysis
The Artificial Tree project, developed by the authors, presents an innovative approach to urban sustainability by integrating microalgae cultivation systems for CO<sub>2</sub> capture, biomass production, and urban cooling. This study evaluates the project’s feasibility and effectiveness...
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MDPI AG
2024-12-01
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| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/14/12/4045 |
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| author | Rosa Cervera María Rosa Villalba Javier Sánchez |
| author_facet | Rosa Cervera María Rosa Villalba Javier Sánchez |
| author_sort | Rosa Cervera |
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| description | The Artificial Tree project, developed by the authors, presents an innovative approach to urban sustainability by integrating microalgae cultivation systems for CO<sub>2</sub> capture, biomass production, and urban cooling. This study evaluates the project’s feasibility and effectiveness in transforming urban furniture into functional photobioreactors that enhance environmental quality. Inspired by natural aesthetics, the Artificial Tree functions as both a CO<sub>2</sub> sink and a biofertilizer producer. Using Scenedesmus microalgae, the system captures 50 kg of CO<sub>2</sub> annually per unit and generates 28 kg of biomass, which further reduces emissions when utilized as a biofertilizer. To assess its impact, a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) method was employed, considering factors such as CO<sub>2</sub> capture, biomass production, social engagement, visual appeal, and scalability. This methodology incorporated a three-level qualitative scale and criteria tailored to compare similar projects with at least three months of operation and available data on microalgae productivity. Results highlight that the Artificial Tree achieves up to 2.5 times more CO<sub>2</sub> fixation than a mature tree while combining environmental benefits with public engagement. Its modular and aesthetic design supports educational outreach and inspires larger-scale implementation. This project demonstrates significant potential to redefine urban spaces sustainably by seamlessly integrating functionality, artistic expression, and public interaction. |
| format | Article |
| id | doaj-art-aa5eab739aff46928c6d47f2f5d60ab5 |
| institution | DOAJ |
| issn | 2075-5309 |
| language | English |
| publishDate | 2024-12-01 |
| publisher | MDPI AG |
| record_format | Article |
| series | Buildings |
| spelling | doaj-art-aa5eab739aff46928c6d47f2f5d60ab52025-08-20T02:43:29ZengMDPI AGBuildings2075-53092024-12-011412404510.3390/buildings14124045The Artificial Tree: Integrating Microalgae into Sustainable Architecture for CO<sub>2</sub> Capture and Urban Efficiency—A Comprehensive AnalysisRosa Cervera0María Rosa Villalba1Javier Sánchez2School of Architecture, University of Alcalá, 28801 Madrid, SpainSchool of Architecture, University of Alcalá, 28801 Madrid, SpainSchool of Industrial Engineers, Polytechnic University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, SpainThe Artificial Tree project, developed by the authors, presents an innovative approach to urban sustainability by integrating microalgae cultivation systems for CO<sub>2</sub> capture, biomass production, and urban cooling. This study evaluates the project’s feasibility and effectiveness in transforming urban furniture into functional photobioreactors that enhance environmental quality. Inspired by natural aesthetics, the Artificial Tree functions as both a CO<sub>2</sub> sink and a biofertilizer producer. Using Scenedesmus microalgae, the system captures 50 kg of CO<sub>2</sub> annually per unit and generates 28 kg of biomass, which further reduces emissions when utilized as a biofertilizer. To assess its impact, a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) method was employed, considering factors such as CO<sub>2</sub> capture, biomass production, social engagement, visual appeal, and scalability. This methodology incorporated a three-level qualitative scale and criteria tailored to compare similar projects with at least three months of operation and available data on microalgae productivity. Results highlight that the Artificial Tree achieves up to 2.5 times more CO<sub>2</sub> fixation than a mature tree while combining environmental benefits with public engagement. Its modular and aesthetic design supports educational outreach and inspires larger-scale implementation. This project demonstrates significant potential to redefine urban spaces sustainably by seamlessly integrating functionality, artistic expression, and public interaction.https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/14/12/4045architectural photobioreactorurban furnituresustainable citybiofertilizersalgal biomassCO<sub>2</sub> sink |
| spellingShingle | Rosa Cervera María Rosa Villalba Javier Sánchez The Artificial Tree: Integrating Microalgae into Sustainable Architecture for CO<sub>2</sub> Capture and Urban Efficiency—A Comprehensive Analysis Buildings architectural photobioreactor urban furniture sustainable city biofertilizers algal biomass CO<sub>2</sub> sink |
| title | The Artificial Tree: Integrating Microalgae into Sustainable Architecture for CO<sub>2</sub> Capture and Urban Efficiency—A Comprehensive Analysis |
| title_full | The Artificial Tree: Integrating Microalgae into Sustainable Architecture for CO<sub>2</sub> Capture and Urban Efficiency—A Comprehensive Analysis |
| title_fullStr | The Artificial Tree: Integrating Microalgae into Sustainable Architecture for CO<sub>2</sub> Capture and Urban Efficiency—A Comprehensive Analysis |
| title_full_unstemmed | The Artificial Tree: Integrating Microalgae into Sustainable Architecture for CO<sub>2</sub> Capture and Urban Efficiency—A Comprehensive Analysis |
| title_short | The Artificial Tree: Integrating Microalgae into Sustainable Architecture for CO<sub>2</sub> Capture and Urban Efficiency—A Comprehensive Analysis |
| title_sort | artificial tree integrating microalgae into sustainable architecture for co sub 2 sub capture and urban efficiency a comprehensive analysis |
| topic | architectural photobioreactor urban furniture sustainable city biofertilizers algal biomass CO<sub>2</sub> sink |
| url | https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/14/12/4045 |
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