Greenairy's Plant-Based Air Purification Towers Target Toxic Gases in Office Buildings

The Problem: Indoor Air Pollution Goes Undetected

Tanvi Thombre and Lakshya Saraf discovered the dangers of workplace air quality the hard way. While working as engineering students in their university makerspace, Thombre's best friend fainted and required hospitalization due to exposure to toxic fumes from laser cutters, 3D printers, and soldering irons. This catalyst prompted the pair to investigate indoor air pollution, leading them to recognize it as an invisible but serious health hazard affecting schools, offices, hotels, salons, and other commercial buildings where sealed air-conditioning systems prevent windows from opening.

The researchers identified a critical gap in existing air purification technology. Standard air purifiers excel at removing particulate matter like dust and pollen, but they struggle with toxic gases including carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, and benzene—compounds classified as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that easily evaporate into the air. Thombre linked VOC exposure to chronic disease and sick building syndrome, a condition where occupants experience unexplained health effects and discomfort despite no identifiable illness. Harvard research cited by the founders shows that improving indoor air quality enhances cognitive function and workplace productivity.

Greenairy's Plant Tower Solution

The startup Greenairy approaches this problem by building plant towers designed to draw in contaminated air, break down toxic gases, and release purified air back into the environment. Saraf explained that while a potted plant cleans air slowly, optimizing the conditions around plants enables dramatically faster and more effective purification than conventional methods. Unlike traditional air purifier filters that require frequent replacement and handle only a narrow range of VOCs, plants provide a natural solution with no harmful byproducts and no maintenance requirements.

Greenairy conducted short-term pilots across multiple Singapore locations using RESET-certified air monitoring equipment. In comparative testing, the startup's plant towers outperformed both medical-grade ionizers and HEPA air purifiers. The results showed the plant towers achieved the lowest VOC levels and removed VOCs fastest. Office staff reported appreciation for the natural aroma and aesthetic appeal the towers contributed to their workspace.

In standard office conditions, Greenairy documented a 50 percent reduction in both daily average VOC levels and peak VOC concentrations. The founders reported that improvements continued as plants and microbes matured, preventing gas accumulation over time. Independent validation came from TÜV SÜD, a German testing and certification firm, with results planned for publication and available upon request during the fundraising phase.

Path to Commercialization

The founders currently operate from opposite hemispheres—Saraf based in Berkeley, California, and Thombre in Singapore—an arrangement that allows parallel focus on testing and fundraising. They plan to consolidate operations in Singapore by the first half of 2027, coinciding with their launch of mass-produced towers and installation for initial customers. Greenairy is presenting at TechCrunch Disrupt as part of the Startup Battlefield 200 competition, where they seek additional capital and strategic partnerships to scale production and market expansion.