Just Breath

CLEANING UP the air is the ambition of a developing project breathing new life into a neglected space. 

Community interest company The African Oasis established the Urban Farm to draw up a blueprint for the former Shelthorpe community garden to sequestrate carbon from the atmosphere by photosynthetically harnessing algae to a bioreactor and improve air quality.  

Project manager of the Urban Farm Barbara Attridge said microalgae can sequester carbon at a rate 30 times higher than traditional land – based methods, making it a natural pollution control agent and a potent tool in the fight against climate change. 

Algae is the fastest growing photosynthetic organism that doesn’t compete with other crops. The by – product from the aquaponic operation should be nutrient – rich algae biomass for fish and cattle feed as well as fertiliser for vegetables in a circular process. 

“Our initial 200-meter square commercial site is capable of sequestering approximately 15,000 tonnes of CO2 annually. Furthermore, our approach ensures the permanent removal and storage of carbon, thereby mitigating environmental risks associated with conventional practices,” said Ms Attridge. 

To date the site clearance has been completed and funding received from the Royal Horticultural Society and Charnwood Borough council. The blueprint and prototype were developed by the Glebe House work skills’ team who are expected to finalise the end construction and implementation of the algae bioreactor and resulting aquaponic system.   

“At the heart of our endeavour lies the conviction that practical solutions can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change while promoting economic empowerment within marginalized communities,” added Barbara. 

Engineer Kasai said they overcame three main challenges including energy, there was no power source. 

“We looked at solar panels and a biogas generator that doesn’t produce noise. We use light that doesn’t create pollution”.

It is hoped the self–sustaining ecosystem will filter cleaner air into the wider Loughborough community and further afield through an inclusive and diverse working partnership encouraging employment and volunteering opportunities. 

“This is exciting,” said a volunteer.