Bioengineered living materials for environmental remediation and climate adaptation in nature-inspired decarbonization

Abstract

Bioengineered Living Materials (BLMs) represent an innovative fusion of biotechnology and materials science, leveraging living biological systems such as bacteria, fungi, and algae to create dynamic, sustainable materials capable of growth, self-repair, and environmental adaptation. This review examines the potential of BLMs in addressing pressing global challenges, particularly in the context of accelerating climate change. BLMs are positioned as transformative solutions for carbon sequestration, environmental remediation, and climate-resilient urban infrastructure. Major applications, such as photosynthetic microbe-based facades, mycelium-derived composites, and engineered microbial systems, offer multifunctional benefits, including CO₂ sequestration, pollutant degradation, moisture regulation, and enhanced thermal insulation. Furthermore, BLMs contribute to green building design, flood resilience, and heat modulation, aligning with sustainability and circular economy principles. Despite their promising potential, challenges in scalability, regulatory frameworks, biosafety, and standardization remain. The integration of machine learning and metabolic engineering further enhances BLM performance and adaptability, with ongoing efforts aimed at overcoming limitations in carbon sequestration efficiency. This review concludes that BLMs, with their unique capabilities, are poised to contribute significantly to sustainable urban development and climate change mitigation.