ProtoType7 CO2 Scrubbing Testing Whitepaper

Abstract

People are spending 80-95% of their lives indoors (Javier), where air quality is 2-5 times worse than outdoors (EPA). Indoor CO2 levels have been shown to reach unhealthy levels in occupied meeting rooms and classrooms (Myhrvold) (Erbiao), even with existing mitigation technologies (Wyon). The effects of increased CO2 include reduced cognitive performance of 10-15% (Cincinelli) and respiratory illnesses, such as asthma (EPA) (Mata). This is exacerbated by the climate crisis, as Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are becoming essential, and buildings are better sealed. HVAC systems account for 38% of a building’s energy consumption and 12% of global consumption (González-Torres). 

This study evaluates the efficacy of VerdeTerra’s Prototype7, an innovative air purification system that utilizes cyanobacteria, specifically Spirulina, for biologically mediated CO2 reduction within indoor environments. We conducted a series of controlled experiments to compare the CO2 absorption efficiency of VerdeTerra’s Prototype7 against traditional air purification technologies including standard HEPA/Charcoal filter-based purifiers and natural bioremediators like Spathiphyllum (Peace Lilly) plants. Our results demonstrate that Prototype7 significantly outperforms these conventional methods by achieving five times faster reductions in CO2 levels, offering a sustainable alternative to mechanical ventilation and chemical air scrubbing. These findings suggest that integrating cyanobacteria-based systems could revolutionize indoor air quality management, especially in tightly sealed environments where air exchange is limited. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term operational and environmental impacts of deploying such biotechnological solutions in diverse indoor settings.