Breathing Easy: Living Walls Transforming Airports Worldwide

Edmonton Airport

Airports, the bustling gateways to the world, are not only hubs of connectivity but also magnets for stress and environmental challenges, notably air pollution. However, an a nature-based solution is taking flight, quite literally, across terminals worldwide: Living Walls. These verdant installations not only combat air pollution but also optimize space and create a tranquil oasis for travelers from every corner of the globe.

Clearing the Air: Combatting Airport Pollution

Airports, with their constant stream of vehicles and aircraft, are notorious hotspots for air pollution. The enclosed spaces of terminals exacerbate this issue, leading to poor indoor air quality that can affect the health and well-being of passengers and staff. Enter Living Walls: natural air purifiers that filter out harmful pollutants and release fresh oxygen into the environment. By harnessing the power of plants, airports can significantly reduce levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and improve indoor air quality, creating a healthier atmosphere for all.

Bangalore International Airport Terminal by Sreenag Pictures

Maximizing Space: Vertical Gardens in the Sky

In the crowded confines of airports, space is a precious commodity. Living Walls offer a vertical solution to this spatial challenge, transforming blank walls into vibrant green canvases. By maximizing vertical space, airports can introduce nature into their architecture without sacrificing valuable floor area. These vertical gardens not only beautify terminals but also serve as functional elements that contribute to a more sustainable and visually appealing airport environment.

Bangalore International Airport Terminal by Sreenag Pictures

International Appeal: A Universal Solution

Airports cater to a diverse array of travelers from around the world, each with their own cultural backgrounds and preferences. Living Walls transcend language barriers and cultural divides, offering a universally appreciated solution to the common challenges faced by airports worldwide. Whether in bustling metropolises or remote destinations, the calming presence of greenery evokes a sense of serenity and connection to nature that resonates with travelers of all nationalities.

Cultivating Calm: Reducing Stress in Travelers

Traveling can be a stressful experience, with long lines, security checks, and flight delays adding to the tension. Living Walls provide a natural antidote to the chaos of travel, offering a sanctuary of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of airport terminals. Studies have shown that exposure to green spaces can reduce stress levels and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being. By incorporating Living Walls into airport design, terminals can become havens of tranquility where travelers can decompress and recharge before their journeys.

Changi Airport Terminal 2

Living Walls are transforming airport design worldwide by addressing air pollution, maximizing space, and creating a sense of calm for travelers. And when comparing the progressiveness of biophilic design, it's clear that Europe and Asia have embraced it more fully than America. While airports in Europe and Asia have invested significantly in Living Walls and other nature-based solutions, progress in America has been slower, with many terminals still lacking even living planters.

As the importance of biophilic design gains recognition globally, there's hope that airports worldwide will follow the lead. What we are wondering here at Urbanstrong is which U.S.-based team of architects/designers will be the first to extend the presence of Living Walls beyond the exclusive luxury lounges of airports and integrate them into the public traffic ways, such as terminals.