Delhi Launches Interactive ‘Breathable Art’ Installation for Clean Air

On October 25, 2023, the Environment Ministry of India inaugurated the ‘Breathable Art’ installation at Swarn Jayanti Park in Rohini, Delhi. This initiative, part of the broader campaign titled ‘Breath of Change – Clean Air, Blue Skies,’ aims to raise awareness about air pollution and promote sustainable living practices.

The ‘Breathable Art’ installation represents a collaborative effort between the Environment Ministry, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). Designed as an innovative public engagement tool, it utilizes air-purifying plants and sustainable materials to create an interactive experience for visitors.

Promoting Environmental Awareness

According to the Ministry’s official statement, visitors can engage with the installation through QR codes, which provide educational content about the plants featured. These include the Areca palm, bamboo palm, money plant, snake plant, spider plant, parijat, peace lily, arrowhead, weeping fig, and zigzag plant. Each of these species plays a crucial role in improving air quality by removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene, particularly relevant during Delhi’s dry winter months when respiratory issues frequently arise.

The installation not only serves as an educational tool but also seeks to address the ongoing air quality challenges faced by the national capital. By enhancing urban green spaces, it aims to provide a natural, passive solution to combat pollution while fostering a greater connection between art and nature.

Vision for a Sustainable Future

The official statement emphasized that “Breathable Art embodies the vision of a greener, more breathable Delhi, where art and nature coexist to remind every citizen that sustainability begins with a single breath.” With this initiative, the Ministry seeks to encourage the adoption of eco-friendly lifestyles among residents and promote the integration of nature-based solutions in urban planning.

As cities around the world grapple with air quality and environmental concerns, initiatives like ‘Breathable Art’ highlight the importance of proactive measures in fostering sustainable living. The installation in Delhi serves as a reminder of the potential for innovation in addressing environmental challenges through community engagement and education.