The Bioluminescent Plant Revolution: Here Is the New Frontier of Urban Design in Milan

Forget traditional streetlights and classic neon lights. The future of city lighting could be zero-impact, thanks to a new generation of genetically modified plants capable of emitting their own light.

The project, dubbed FloraLux, was developed in the laboratories of the Institute of Plant Bioengineering in Milan and presented this morning at Palazzo Marino. Scientists have successfully inserted the luciferase gene (the same protein that makes fireflies glow) into the DNA of certain tall shrub species, such as Ficus benjamina and oleander.

The result is surprising: these plants produce a soft light, similar to moonlight, capable of illuminating sidewalks and cycle paths without consuming a single watt of electricity. Furthermore, during the photosynthesis process, these plants absorb 30% more carbon dioxide than normal plants.

The first street tests will start in September in the Porta Nuova district. If the trial yields the desired results, the city administration plans to replace traditional public lighting in several city parks within the next three years.