12/24/2024
Dutch designer Ermi van Oers has developed the Living Light, an innovative lamp that harnesses the energy of a living plant to generate electricity. This lamp features a plant encased in a glass tube; as the plant undergoes photosynthesis, it releases organic compounds into the soil. These compounds are then broken down by bacteria, creating a microbial fuel cell—a system where electrons are transferred from the bacteria to an anode. The electrons travel through a wire to the cathode, generating a flow of electricity similar to that in a battery, which powers the lamp's LEDs. This approach not only illuminates spaces but also exemplifies a sustainable energy source.
Van Oers' interest in biotechnology emerged during her university studies in sustainability, where she was captivated by nature's circular nutritional systems. Collaborating with the Dutch research group Plant-e, she developed the Living Light. While the current model produces a modest amount of energy—taking a day to generate enough power for half an hour's charge—van Oers is committed to advancing the technology. She envisions scaling it up to illuminate public spaces and ultimately power entire smart cities, highlighting the potential of integrating natural processes into modern energy solutions.
