The Carbon Challenge Award at Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is determined to become carbon neutral by 2050and to assist with this they have introduced the Cambridge Carbon Challenge. The Cambridge Carbon Challenge is a scheme that is inviting both staff and students at the University to submit ideas to reduce carbon emissions across the estate.

A team by the name of Plant it Green have been awarded £24,000 to progress with their ambition of incorporating a hydroponics plant system into the campus. As well as restoring the air quality across the campuses this project has a fascinating future ahead because it will be analysing how various plants can improve the air quality in office spaces.

Human and animal breathing produces carbon dioxide and water when the oxygen we breathe combines with the glucose we use for our energy and this is the chemical equation:

C6H12O6 + 6O2 -> 6CO2 + 6H2O (Glucose + Oxygen produces Carbon Dioxide + Water)

Conversely, the plants convert water and carbon dioxide back into glucose and oxygen with the aid of light energy:

6CO2 + 6H2O + (energy)->C6H12O6 + 6O2

Traditionally it has been sunlight that has provided the energy and the reaction is known as photosynthesis. Plants and animals have relied upon each other to refresh the air that they breathe.

The balance of oxygen to carbon dioxide has changed significantly in modern times which is predominantly due to the combustion of fossil fuels for power. We now have the opportunity to redress this balance using hydroponic systems and this research at the University ofCambridgeis exciting stuff!

Green Qube Grow Tents are being used which gives credibility and stands tribute to their quality! Take a look at their products here

Read more about the University's research here and the contributions that Green Qube are making here