Nature-based building solutions: circular utilization of photosynthetic organisms

Abstract

This chapter proposes a circular agricultural system for integration of naturebased solutions, mainly photosynthetic elements into buildings and cities and evaluates its potential for utilization. The proposed system consists of the integration of three main nature-based solutions into a building: green roofs that filter water, photobioreactors (PBRs) that cultivate microalgae inside and aquaponics that grow both fish and vegetables. The system is powered by solar energy and its main purpose is to grow food in the urban context. Although there have been some studies about the energy and environmental effects of integrating nature-based systems in buildings, they are usually utilized for different purposes, yet the present chapter proposes and assesses one of the first examples, where three systems are combined together.