UK University’s air-cleansing poetry reduces pollution

The University of Sheffield installation of a revolutionary air-cleansing poem has removed over two tonnes of nitrogen oxide from the air.

‘In Praise of Air’, the world’s first air-cleansing poem, was produced by scientists and writers at the University.

The poem, written by award-winning writer Simon Armitage, Professor of Poetry in the University’s School of English, has been on display on the University of Sheffield’s Alfred Denny building since May 2014.

It was printed on specially treated material developed by scientists at the University which uses catalytic oxidation to purify its surrounding.

Tony Ryan, Professor at the University of Sheffield’s Department of Chemistry and the developer of the technology, said: “The poem is printed on a material that can mitigate the pollution caused by our addiction to driving and could cut disease and help save lives.”

Joanna Gavins, Professor at the University of Sheffield’s School of English and Project Lead, said: “We all know that pollution is a major problem for the world’s urban areas but so far we as a society haven’t fully adopted any long-term solutions to tackle the problem.”

She went on to say: “Scientists, such as my colleagues in Sheffield, are developing technologies to help us clean the environment but it’s the arts and humanities that can help raise awareness of environmental issues and inspire people to adopt altruistic pro-environmental behaviours.”

It is hoped that the poem – which has now reached the end of its exhibition in Sheffield – and its technology will be replicated on billboards and artwork in urban areas across the world to help combat pollution.

Professor Gavins said: “Since the poem was installed in 2014 we’ve been inundated with positive and supportive comments from the community and passers-by. It also generated interest from people all over the world and received worldwide media coverage. We’ve had lots of comments from people who feel it has not only made an impact on the environment but added another cultural landmark to the city.”

Professor Ryan added: “The project has been really well received both in Sheffield and all over the world. If we could replicate this in every urban area in the UK then we could have much better air quality.”

The development team is now working on other public poems on environmental issues.

They have also partnered with Northern Flags – one of the UK’s leading companies in flag design, manufacture and printing – and photocatalytic products manufacturer Pureti, to explore the potential of developing air-cleansing signs for fuel station forecourts and roadside advertising boards. 

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Image source: The University of Sheffield