Researchers have come up with a faster, cheaper way to grow moss, and hope it can join the global-warming fight.
The researchers, led by Osaka Prefecture University professor Haruhiko Murase, have developed technology to grow the Racomitrium japonicumin variety of moss in one to two months, compared with two years for natural growth.
They said the technique involves adjustments to the application of light, temperature and nourishment, and costs a third that of the natural method.
They said the moss, resistant to dry conditions, heat and cold, is an effective insulation material on roofs and external walls. It can be used to combat global warming because it absorbs carbon dioxide, and could also be used to ease the so-called urban heat-island effect, they said.
The group will set up a nonprofit organization Tuesday to mass-produce the moss.