Inspired by the spontaneous growth of moss on concrete, Respyre - an innovative company specialising in nature-inclusive urban design - has developed a sustainable and circular concrete mixture created to be receptive to moss growth.
Respyre is a spin-off of TU Delft University of Technology–the oldest and largest technical university in the Netherlands–that is transforming the living-wall industry with the production of their moss-walls.
Its groundbreaking green facade technology seamlessly integrates bioreceptive concrete cladding with a specialised moss gel. This advanced combination allows for the effortless creation of lush, green facades, transforming urban environments into vibrant, breathable spaces. By combining bioreceptive concrete with a gel-coating embedded with moss spores, Respyre brings life to any barren surface. Their solutions make green in urban environments more accessible, adding low-cost and low-maintenance options to the construction market.
Respyre makes cooling cities, improving air quality, and increasing biodiversity easier than ever. Their specialised moss gel ensures controlled and rapid moss development, providing the flexibility needed for modern urban planning. This technology is designed to mimic nature's resilience and intelligence, contributing to healthier and more sustainable cities.
THE PROCESS
The process of creating these green facades involves four main steps. First, bioreceptive concrete is applied to surfaces, followed by a bio-enhancing gel that facilitates moss spore attachment. Next, a temporary irrigation system supports the initial moss growth with essential water needs. Moss begins as a green mat of protonema, developing into a full moss layer within 12 weeks. Once established, moss can survive harsh conditions with minimal maintenance.
Moss-covered facades offer numerous advantages. Environmentally, moss significantly reduces greenhouse gases and encourages biodiversity, making cities more eco-friendly. Public health benefits include improved mental well-being from green spaces, cleaner air, and by fighting the urban heat island effect, positively impacting physical health. Moreover, moss facades absorb water like a sponge, mitigating water nuisances in urban areas.
These facades require no ground footing and minimal irrigation after the initial growth period. Aesthetically, moss changes colour with the seasons, creating a dynamic and beautiful urban landscape.
Respyre’s bioreceptive facades are 85% circular, made from recycled granulate rubble and reactivated cement. Over their lifetime, these facades absorb CO₂, turning it into calcium carbonate. This reaction, together with the effect of mosses, will make the product CO₂-neutral within one year. This innovative approach offers a sustainable alternative to traditional wall decoration.
Founded in 2018, Respyre is dedicated to making nature-inclusive building easy and sustainable. The company's mission is to tackle environmental, urban, and health challenges by utilizing moss in urban designs worldwide. Recognized for its innovation, Respyre has won several awards, including the Philips Innovation Award 2022 and the AED Pitch Competition 2022.
