Magnus Larsson has an ambitious plan to re-landscape the Sahara Desert--and do so sustainably. The images in the gallery above depict Larsson's vision of a 6,000-km green wall made of sandstone, which would provide shelter and protection--as well as hedge against the spread of the desert.
What's fascinating about Magnus Larsson's idea is that it is completely sustainable. All the Sahara architecture needs is bacillus pasteurii, a microorganism that solidifies loose sand into sandstone.
Magnus Larsson's idea won first prize at the Holcim Foundation's Awards for Sustainable Construction. Check out more photos from the project here.
Sustainable Dunescapes
Magnus Larsson Plans to Re-Landscape the Sahara
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable-landscaping - Opportunity for companies to explore environmentally-conscious methods for landscaping and outdoor architecture.
2. Desert-conservation - Opportunity for companies to develop new technologies and methods for combating desertification and conserving desert ecosystems.
3. Microbial-solidification - Opportunity for companies to research and develop microbial-based solutions for solidifying loose sand into durable structures.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architecture companies can explore sustainable design techniques for outdoor environments and desert structures.
2. Environmental-consulting - There is opportunity for environmental consulting firms to work with cities and organizations to develop sustainable landscaping and desert conservation strategies.
3. Biotech - Biotech companies can research and develop microbial solutions for solidifying sand for use in construction and landscaping.