Fleming College

Lindsay ON – A Living Wall that naturally filters indoor air and provides an interior green space has been installed at the Frost Campus of Fleming College."The Living Wall will provide a platform to study new ideas for indoor bioremediation techniques, driven by desires for a more sustainable approach," says Ashleigh Uiska, Frost Sustainability Coordinator .The Living Wall is made up of plants that host microorganisms, which break down toxins often found in indoor air. The plants also condition the air by increasing oxygen levels. Aquaria will also be integrated into the Living Wall. The aquaria will act as the reservoirs and be home to several indigenous fish species that will produce nutrients to supply the plant life in the wall.  Apart from the physiological aspects of the system, the psychological benefits of providing a welcoming space for staff and students to lounge, relax and enjoy the waterfalls, plants and animals indoors were considered in the design.Students from various programs within the School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences will be actively involved in: * monitoring the air and water qualities * studying the integrated plants and animals  * learning about the system's operation * maintenance of the ecosystem."Implementing new technologies and areas of study at the college is not only a benefit to the students, but increases the overall knowledge base of our entire community," says Blane Harvey, Principal of the Frost Campus The Living Wall uses lava rock as the substrate, and employs a continuous-flow hydroponic system. Roots will dip into the aerated water and are continuously exposed to nutrients. The plants are placed between the dry-stacked lava rock wall, which supports them, and can be easily rearranged for optimal results. The water flows behind the rocks, forcing air through the system. Air flows by natural convection, with the air current amplified by the rushing waterfall.Evaporization is minimized by decreasing the temperature differential between the air and water.  Splash is also lessened by directing the water flow down the flat plane, lightly trickling over the lava rock. The elimination of fans reduces the energy input into the system.Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campuses in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 90 full-time programs in Law and Justice, Community Development, Health and Wellness, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, Technology and Skilled Trades, Fine Arts, and Business. Fleming College has 5,000 full-time and 10,000 part-time students and more than 50,000 alumni.