Bandung, lpik.itb.ac.id – Greenlabs and Jubelo, together with LPIK and ITB's microalgae research team from the Biochemistry and Molecular Engineering Research Group, have developed HAWA: a circular microalgae phototank innovation that can improve clean-air quality in urban areas.
The name HAWA for this microalgae phototank technology was inspired by the fact that the inventor team is predominantly women. HAWA consists of green algae and air-quality sensors. The technology can capture CO2 and convert it into biomass that can be reused as compost, spirulina, or other renewable energy resources.
On Tuesday, 19 March, a soft-launch ceremony was held for the first filling of microalgae into the HAWA phototank unit. Dr Irwan Gumilar took part in the occasion at the first-floor lobby of ITB's PAU Building.
Using HAWA to improve air quality is believed to be more effective and to provide benefits equivalent to planting five trees. Following this soft launch, HAWA is planned to be replicated and placed in 50 cities and regencies across Java. Through HAWA, air quality—particularly in urban areas—is expected to improve while supporting efforts to advance the circular economy.
