
05/10/2025
Scientists in Iceland are working on a kelp-derived wall paint that could go beyond aesthetics — it may help cleanse indoor air. Using bioactive compounds from marine seaweed, such formulations aim to bind and neutralize airborne pollutants once the paint is dry.
Rather than relying on electricity, filters, or mechanical devices, this approach would let your walls quietly support cleaner air — especially in densely populated buildings with limited ventilation. Meanwhile, the finish is envisioned to be soft, matte, and naturally toned, fitting both form and function.
This kind of innovation aligns with broader efforts to merge nature and built environments — from photocatalytic paints that break down pollutants under sunlight to biomaterials that sequester carbon.
Source: Nieto-Márquez et al. (2023). Improving indoor air quality by using photocatalytic paints.