Green Wall

A green wall (living wall or vertical garden) is a wall system incorporating living plants that provides moderate sound absorption alongside thermal insulation, air quality, and biophilic design benefits. Research shows that green walls can achieve absorption coefficients of 0.40–0.60 at mid frequencies, comparable to moderately absorptive conventional treatments. The absorption mechanism combines the porous substrate (soil, felt, or mineral wool growing medium) with leaf scattering and the air layer behind the planting. Green walls are most effective as supplementary acoustic treatment in atriums, lobbies, restaurants, and offices where aesthetic and wellbeing benefits complement the acoustic function. Their acoustic performance varies with plant species, substrate depth, moisture content, and planting density. They should not be relied upon as the sole acoustic treatment but can contribute meaningfully to overall room absorption, particularly in spaces pursuing WELL or LEED certification.