The Urban Algae Canopy by ecoLogic Studio combines micro-algal cultures and real time digital cultivation protocols to produce the oxygen equivalent of four hectares of woodland every day.

The piece of bio-digital architecture is the first of its kind in the world and will be on display next year at the 2015 Expo Milano.

Constructed using a custom designed ETFE cladding system and a frame made from CNC welding technology, the canopy is able to control the flow of energy, water and CO2 based on weather patterns, visitor's movements, and other environmental variables.

When the sun shines on the structure, technology and biology interact, encouraging the algae to photosynthesise and grow across the canopy.

The transparency, colour and shading potential of the canopy are determined by the interrelationships between climate, micro-algae, visitors and digital control systems.

When completely covered in algae, the structure has the potential to generate the oxygen equivalent of four hectares of woodland, along with nearly 330 pounds of biomass per day.

Courtesy Inhabitat