Can a Playground Help Clean the Air?

AirBubble, designed by London-based ecoLogicStudio, is not a typical playground. Located in Warsaw, it’s a public installation that uses living microalgae to filter air—while children play.

A Playable Filter

The structure consists of a circular timber frame wrapped in translucent membrane. Inside, 52 glass bioreactors filled with Chlorella algae absorb pollutants and release oxygen. Movement from children—jumping, bouncing, using foot pumps—circulates air through the system, making play a functional part of air purification.

How It Works

Early data showed the playground reduced harmful fine particles (PM2.5) by up to 83% and absorbed significant amounts of nitrogen dioxide. While the scale is small, the impact within the enclosed space is measurable and meaningful, especially for a child-friendly environment.

Learning Through Design

AirBubble also serves as an educational tool. An exhibition at the nearby Copernicus Science Centre explains how biological systems can be integrated into architecture. The project encourages people to rethink how cities might incorporate living systems into everyday infrastructure.