Harnessing bioluminescence (conceptual illustration)
© Gregoire Cirade/Science Photo Library
Bioluminescence has fascinated humans for centuries, with countless cultures using it for navigation, decoration and even as a natural light source. Today, this ‘cold light’ is inspiring researchers to explore its potential as a modern lighting alternative to burning fossil fuels.
It is not a perfect solution – a sensitivity to uncontrollable temperatures and low light intensity are among the main concerns. However, bioluminescence requires very little energy to produce. If its challenges can be overcome, bioluminescence has the potential to provide clean, sustainable and inexpensive lighting for our future towns and cities.
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