For the first time, Mi-Hy brings together Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) technology and hydroponics, thereby introducing a prosthetic rhizosphere (an extended rhizosphere community) to the typically “soil-less” configuration of hydroponics systems. The Mi-Hy system will modulate nitrogen forms, plant root microbiomes optimise nitrogen uptake, and mobilise phosphorous, averting the need for chemical fertilisers.

This circular, sustainable platform turns carbon into biomass and reclaims nitrogen from wastewater streams. Linked through shared microbiomes, the bioelectricity platform is:

• optimised to generate electricity from wastewater with Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC) at higher efficiency;
• driving wavelength-specific LEDs to optimize photosynthesis;
• capable of recovering useful biomolecules using microbial electro synthesis (MES).

The innovative bioelectricity platform shares common microbial constituents, meaning they can be combined without the need for external (fossil-fuel based) energy sources. To achieve this goal, Mi-Hy aims to design biofilms using metabolic engineering of wild type symbiotic strains. This next-generation hydroponics system has near-future applications in agriculture and in the urban environment.

It delivers a smart, decentralized, low power digital infrastructure with sustainable organic solutions, supporting sustainability via urban agriculture, precision gardening, wastewater treatment, energy generation, synthesis of high value compounds such as vitamins. Mi-Hy will also invite designers and stakeholders from various sectors to co- create future applications. Ultimately, it anticipates and facilitates a healthier, sustainable, nature-based urban landscape.