What is the Nature+Tech | Vegetotem Project?
Nature+Tech | Vegetotem is an innovative French initiative focused on improving indoor air quality through a unique blend of technology and nature. This project, developed by Nature Plus Tech, specializes in ventilation solutions, energy efficiency, and greening services. It’s not just about fresh air—it’s about creating healthier, more comfortable spaces by combining plants with a scientifically proven bioinspired mechanism. The approach is grounded in applied research and university studies, with a first product that purifies indoor air using water and plants. The system has been tested in full-scale prototypes, showing real effects on the aerobiome—the microbiota in ambient air. The project also addresses the anxiety people feel about air pollution by offering a natural, reassuring solution.
Main Benefits of the Project
Here are some key facts and figures that highlight the impact and importance of the Nature+Tech | Vegetotem project:
- Indoor air can be several times more polluted than outdoor air, especially in confined spaces.
- In 2022, research presented at the World Congress of Oncology Experts linked fine particles of 2.5 microns to lung cancer.
- Air quality diagnosis is now mandatory for establishments welcoming sensitive publics, like schools and elderly care homes (EHPADs).
- Nature Plus Tech is an accredited partner of ADEME for the ECRAINS® approach, focusing on sustainable indoor air quality management.
- The project combines the symbolic comfort of plants with rigorous scientific methods to tackle pollution and improve occupant well-being.
Current Projects and Applications
The project is actively involved in several exciting initiatives. For example, there’s a study on air quality in EHPADs, aiming to provide effective ventilation while ensuring thermal comfort for elderly residents. Another project looks at historic buildings, exploring the feasibility of using cellar air to cool apartments—taking inspiration from Canadian wells. These efforts show how Nature+Tech | Vegetotem adapts its solutions to diverse environments, always with a focus on health and energy efficiency.
Challenges in Indoor Air Quality Management
One of the toughest questions is whether to ventilate or isolate indoor spaces. Ventilation is crucial to keep CO2 levels in check, but it can conflict with maintaining a comfortable temperature. Companies must navigate this balance carefully, complying with ventilation laws while striving for energy efficiency. Nature+Tech | Vegetotem understands these challenges and works with top service providers to deliver solutions that meet evolving legislation and real-world needs.
The Science Behind the Approach
Indoor air pollution is a complex issue. Small, confined spaces often trap pollutants, making air quality worse than outside—even during pollution peaks. The project emphasizes vigilance in these environments and the measurement of fine particles, which are proven carcinogens but not yet regulated in workplaces. Beyond technology, Nature+Tech | Vegetotem values responsible communication. Market research revealed that while people worry about pollution, few trust or use air purifiers at home. That’s why the project highlights plants—not just for their beauty but for their symbolic and scientific role in improving air quality.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – by improving indoor air quality and reducing exposure to pollutants.
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – through energy-efficient ventilation and cooling solutions.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – by integrating green solutions in urban and residential environments.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by promoting energy savings and reducing emissions linked to air conditioning.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – through the use of plants to enhance indoor ecosystems and biodiversity.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Indoor Air Quality
Nature+Tech | Vegetotem is more than just a project—it’s a movement towards healthier, greener indoor environments. By combining nature’s power with cutting-edge science, it offers a fresh perspective on how to tackle air pollution inside buildings. The focus on user experience, comfort, and scientific validation makes it a promising solution for the future. As awareness grows and regulations tighten, projects like this will play a crucial role in shaping safer, more sustainable living and working spaces.
