About this project
Urban areas face severe environmental challenges, including
reduced green spaces, air pollution, and space constraints for tree
growth. This research presents a prototype of a “liquid tree”, a
transparent tank containing distilled water and microalgae, integrated
with a solar-powered water pump. Designed with both functional and
aesthetic appeal, the prototype includes a seating bench and
solar-powered charging ports, making it suitable for modern city
environments. The microalgae absorb carbon dioxide and release
oxygen, while the solar panel powers both the pump and charging
system, ensuring sustainability. This project aims to combine
environmental restoration with practical urban design.
Goals and Objectives
Goals and Objectives:
The Liquid Tree Project aims to combat urban air pollution and promote sustainable environmental practices by introducing a modern, space-efficient alternative to traditional tree planting. Its main goals are to improve air quality, raise public awareness about climate change, and provide an innovative, low-maintenance green solution for congested urban areas where planting trees is not feasible. The objectives include installing liquid tree units in high-pollution zones, monitoring their performance, and engaging the community in environmental education.
Intended Beneficiaries and Rationale:
The primary beneficiaries are urban residents, particularly in densely populated areas with poor air quality, such as school zones, busy streets, and marketplaces. These locations were chosen because people here—especially children, elderly, and workers—are most exposed to harmful pollutants. By improving air quality and providing oxygen, the project enhances public health, reduces respiratory issues, and contributes to a cleaner, more pleasant urban environment.
Sustainability and Potential for Replication:
The project’s sustainability lies in the low operational cost, minimal maintenance requirements, and the durability of the liquid tree systems. Local communities and schools can be trained to maintain and monitor the units, fostering a sense of ownership. The technology can be replicated or scaled up to other cities due to its modular design and adaptability to different environmental conditions. Once its benefits are demonstrated, municipal authorities and private sponsors can be encouraged to fund larger-scale adoption.
By combining innovation with environmental necessity, the Liquid Tree Project has the potential to become a model for sustainable urban air purification worldwide.
Expected result
Expected Results (SMART Framework)
Specific
Install 5 fully functional liquid tree units in selected high-pollution zones (e.g., near schools, markets, bus stands) within the first 6 months of the project.
Reduce particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration in the immediate vicinity of each unit by at least 10% within the first year.
Conduct at least 3 community awareness sessions about urban air pollution and eco-innovation.
Measurable
Air Quality Monitoring: Collect baseline data on air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, CO₂ levels) using portable air sensors before installation, then measure monthly for 12 months to assess percentage improvement.
Oxygen Production Tracking: Monitor oxygen output from each unit using installed sensors, aiming for a minimum of 1.5 kg of oxygen/day per unit.
Public Engagement Metrics: Track the number of participants in awareness sessions, aiming for at least 100 active participants in the first year.
Maintain a logbook of operational performance, repairs, and community feedback.
Achievable
Technology is already tested and available; project budget allows for 5 units plus maintenance.
Partnerships with local environmental groups and schools will ensure installation, monitoring, and upkeep are practical with available resources.
Staff and volunteers are trained in both technical maintenance and data collection.
Relevant
Directly addresses the community’s need for improved air quality in spaces where traditional tree planting is impossible.
Supports broader climate action goals and public health improvement strategies at local and national levels.
Aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being).
Time-Bound
Month 1–2: Finalize site selection, acquire units, conduct baseline air quality assessments.
Month 3–4: Install all units and begin oxygen output and air quality monitoring.
Month 5–6: Conduct community awareness programs and training for local caretakers.
Month 6–12: Monthly monitoring of air quality and oxygen levels; quarterly review of progress.
End of Year 1: Publish a performance report with data comparisons to baseline.
Monitoring Capacity:
Portable air quality meters will be used for pollutant measurement.
Each unit will have integrated sensors for oxygen output and filtration performance.
A project team member will maintain records, and quarterly evaluations will be shared with stakeholders.
Community volunteers will be trained to assist in data collection to ensure continuous and transparent monitoring.
By setting clear, measurable goals and tracking performance with reliable tools, the Liquid Tree Project ensures that the results are not only impactful but also verifiable, laying a strong foundation for future expansion.
About me / organisation
Aisha Mehmood & Dua Tariq
The Liquid Tree Project is co-led by Aisha Mehmood and Dua Tariq, both 18-year-old Grade 11 students passionate about environmental sustainability and community well-being.
Aisha Mehmood is a pre-medical student and former Vice-Captain of her school’s Student Council. She brings strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills, along with experience in public speaking, debating, and graphic design. Aisha oversees project planning, technical coordination, and data analysis.
Dua Tariq is an active member of her school’s extracurricular programs with a special interest in environmental awareness campaigns. She excels at community engagement, volunteer coordination, and event management. Dua leads outreach activities, awareness workshops, and partnerships with local organizations.
Together, Aisha and Dua combine strategic planning, creativity, and a commitment to measurable environmental impact. Their shared goal is to deliver innovative solutions to air pollution while inspiring other young people to take action for their communities.