Patrick Blanc’s fascination with vertical gardens began when he was just 13 years old. “I started experimenting with aquariums and aquatic plants,” he says. “I realized that plants can thrive in unusual environments, and that sparked my interest in vertical gardens.” This innovative approach has transformed the airport into a green paradise.

The Green Wall – Tiger Wings, a new installation is a marvel of engineering and design. Comprising various plant species, it reflects the innovative vision of Patrick Blanc.

The airport orientation garden, located post-security, is designed to calm travelers before heading to the gates “Travel is a stressful experience. Nature has this brilliant impact on people. It calms and relaxes you almost instantly,” says Hari Marar.

BIAL’s vision was to create a space that would not only reduce travel anxiety but also uphold Bengaluru’s reputation as a garden city. The airport’s orientation garden, with its 850-year-old yucca and 650-year-old olive trees, is designed to calm travelers before they walk to their gates.

“Bangalore has always had the nickname of being a garden city. And we decided that the airport that we are building here must therefore become an airport in the long term that reflects this identity of Bangalore as a garden city. Airports are portals through which the world interacts with the region. But also those through which the region interacts with the world. And in creating this airport or a terminal in a garden, we tried to make sure that the balance is finally maintained. Which means that the best of local plant species, native species are available here, which can be experienced by people traveling to the region. Similarly, for people who have not had the privilege of traveling abroad, we have the best species from around the world. At terminal 2 we have plant species from Africa, from South America, from North America, from Australia, from Europe,” says Marar.

This airport’s commitment to sustainability is evident everywhere. From the recycled water used for irrigation to the carefully selected plant species, every detail has been carefully considered. “We have adopted 180 rare, endangered and threatened plant species,” explains Hari Marar, adding, “Our airport has become a hotspot for biodiversity, preserving these species for future generations.” The airport’s water harvesting program replenishes 2.36 times the amount of water consumed, making it positive. In addition, BIAL has achieved ACI Level 5 carbon accreditation, a feat that few airports globally have achieved.

The airport’s use of IOT technology ensures efficient water management. Sensors measure root zone temperature, relative humidity and micro-dose of water exactly according to what each plant needs. This innovative approach significantly reduced water consumption.

Beyond the impressive statistics, it’s the human touch that makes this airport truly special. The landscaping team works tirelessly to keep the surroundings lush. The airport’s commitment to sustainability has also had a positive impact on the local community. By adopting sustainable practices, BIAL has reduced its carbon footprint and created a healthier environment for both travelers and employees.

As travelers move around the terminal, they are surrounded by soothing sounds and sights. “We designed the airport to be a soothing experience,” says Hari Marar. “From the natural light to the green walls, every detail is meant to reduce stress and promote relaxation.”

Bengaluru’s Terminal 2 is more than a travel hub – it’s an immersive experience that combines art, nature and innovation. As Patrick Blanc says, “Nature has the power to transform any space. This airport is a shining example of what can be achieved when innovation meets sustainability.”

The airport’s green belt outside the building, features over 3,600 plant species and reflects BIAL’s commitment to conserving the natural world. Rare, endangered and threatened species of the Eastern and Western Ghats have found a safe home here.

As Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport continues to push the boundaries of sustainability and innovation, it sets a new standard for airports around the world. This “Airport in a Garden” is a beacon of hope for a greener and more sustainable future.

“We are committed to making our airport a model of sustainable development. We want to show that airports can be more than transit points; they can be nodes for sustainability and innovation,” signs Hari Marar.