The simple answer to this question is ‘yes’. In the vast oceans where algae naturally grow, it absorbs the carbon dioxide from the air and exports it to the depths of the ocean. Each individual cell of algae requires CO2 for growth and releases oxygen in the air. Oceanic algae are responsible for 40% of the total world’s carbon fixation.
Just imagine the impact this powerful fixation capacity could have in cities where polluted air is the everyday norm. Well, a company, AlgenAir is unleashing the power of algae in cities and made it available for the public. Its product, the aerium is an organic air purifier that cleans the air in your homes and offices.
How It Works
Algae are plant-like living things that use photosynthesis to absorb sunlight to produce and store starch as their food source. However, they don’t grow seeds, flowers, leaves, or stems.
Algae naturally feed on pollutant particles and gases like CO2, CO, NO2, VOC`s, PM 10 and 2.5 and transform them into oxygen, turning a problem into a solution. Their ability to absorb and remove the carbon dioxide in the air is 10 times higher than large trees as their whole bodies are photosynthetic.
The Advantages of Using an Algae Air Filter
Cost Saving
When compared to the different air purifying plants, a natural algae air purifier cost considerably less. It has no power consumption and the maintenance cost is also very low as you just have to recycle and refill the algae when it reaches maturity.
Efficiency
An algae air filter is as effective as 25 natural air purifying plants. It not only decreases carbon dioxide and increases oxygen but also filters dust and pollutant particles out of the air.
Space and Noise
A natural algae air purifier emits very little noise and occupies very little space unlike different purifying plants.
Health
Air pollution is not only harmful for our lungs but our overall health. If you suffer from headaches without an apparent reason or you feel like your brain is not functioning sharply, it might be the high carbon dioxide and low oxygen levels in your home.
Our brain holds 2% of our total body weight but consumes 20% of the oxygen we breathe in. Our blood needs a certain amount of oxygen in it and a deficiency can cause serious health issues.
Indoor Air Pollution
The levels of indoor air pollutants are usually 2 to 5 times higher than the outdoor air pollutants; but this number can sometimes rise up to a 100 times. Modern consumers spend hundreds on indoor plants and are not aware that they do not have the carbon capture capability to balance highly trafficked areas like offices and shared living spaces.
So, the answer to the question, ‘Can algae purify air?’ is a resounding ‘yes’. The natural qualities of algae to absorb and feed on air pollutants and emit oxygen make it a perfect fixture in a balanced home. Its effectiveness being higher than any number of house plants makes it a clear winner over other alternatives.
