External Reference develops the first tree in the world with 3D technology that absorbs CO2.

External Reference develops the first tree in the world with 3D technology that absorbs CO2.

Designed by the architecture firm led by Carmelo Zappulla, the tree is made with an intelligent biomaterial capable of absorbing more than 15 kg of CO2 per year through photolysis.

External Reference, an architecture studio based in Barcelona, has developed the first tree with 3D technology capable of absorbing and neutralizing CO2, nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). Made with 3D printing and thanks to the use of WEARPURE.TECH material - an advanced polymer composed of 100% natural minerals that have the property of absorbing CO2 and purifying the air we breathe - this fir-shaped tree works like a real 30-year-old and 8 meters high, absorbing more than 15 kg of CO2 per year.

For its production, PLA, a bioplastic polymer made with corn dextrose (sugar), has been mixed with a material called CO2pure to achieve a 100% natural mineral compound that has the property of capturing and mineralizing some of the main greenhouse gases and pollutants that we find in the atmosphere.

This Project has been designed with the latest parametric digital design tools that convert the natural laws of phyllotaxis that regulate the arrangement of leaves in plants. The result is a sculpture that follows Phyllotactic spirals that represent a pattern common to different plant structures.

The tree, which can be purchased on demand, can be printed in 3 days and currently there are some prototypes in the Barcelona office of the agency Tinkle, the forerunner of the project, in the headquarters of External Reference (Sayrach Office Club) and in a London.

The Purpose

The creation of this tree, in collaboration with Carmelo Zappulla, is part of Tinkle's Christmas campaign, which since its beginnings has served as a platform to bring different initiatives, cultural traditions or social projects closer to both its clients and collaborators.

Adhering to the Global Compact, the largest international sustainable development initiative, the company has spent years adopting internal changes to align with the Sustainable Development Goals and promote their dissemination and awareness.