Have you noticed more greenery around you? Living walls the future of our cities, here’s why.
Everybody enjoys spending time in green spaces. “Biophilia” is the innate connection that we have to nature, and it explains why many of us want to be surrounded by more of it.
Living walls have been around for over 130 years, but in recent years they’ve become increasingly common in our urban areas. According to the UN, 68% of the world population is predicted to be living in cities by 2050, and with climate change already impacting cities around the world, a green solution is needed, and fast.
However, living walls are more than just a trend. With economic, health, and environmental benefits, eco walls could be the future of our cities. Here is why cities all over the world are transforming their space into a greener one.
It’s no surprise that living walls are good for the environment
Indoor or outdoor, green walls can transform the environment they’re installed in. Plants soak up carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, improving air quality and tackling pollution wherever they are.
Outside they boost biodiversity by acting as a ‘vertical garden’ and providing habitats for nesting birds and pollinators, bringing more wildlife to the city.
Studies show they can help to cool down indoor and outdoor spaces. This means there is less need for air-con as buildings stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Biophilic design even has health benefits
Living walls can do wonders for both our mental and physical health. Plants improve air quality and boost oxygen in a room, ideal as Covid restrictions end and we begin to spend more time indoors. Regular exposure to them can even lower our blood pressure and improve our mental cognition!
Who doesn’t want to spend their time surrounded by nature?
Studies show that we’re more productive and happier when surrounded by nature, and taking biophilia into account, this makes a lot of sense. Would you believe that green spaces in cities have even been shown to decrease violence and criminal activity?
Twenty percent of Europe’s population are exposed to long-term noise levels that are harmful to their health. Plants can absorb sound, so could living walls be the solution to tackling noise pollution?
Importantly, they just look great! Spending time around greenery comes naturally to all of us.
All of this means the economy can grow alongside the plants
The benefits of living walls are far-reaching, and some studies even suggest that installing them throughout our cities could boost our economy. Buildings with living walls are increasing in value, and soon they could be a staple in new building developments.
Happy, healthy workers are more productive workers, and businesses are beginning to see this translating into positive economic growth.
Could they really be the future?
Living walls are certainly a trend, but will it last? The science says yes.
At Fleurtations we love creating plant displays that are more than just pretty. Living walls don’t just bring life and vitality to a space, they also boast health and environmental benefits. Do you want to find out more about living walls? Why not get in touch with us today?