# Xero Cool: The Sustainable Fridge Grown from Bacteria An organic alternative to traditional refrigerators. - **Source:** [Yanko Design](https://brifing.si/source/41d28791-ef47-4e0b-a40a-2a5efca0c11b) - **Published:** 2026-07-24 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/66250da4-153b-4811-8028-bc018071a794 ## Revolution in Fridge Design Xero Cool features an organic design made from bacterial cellulose and wool, unlike traditional refrigerators. Audrey Levy's project at Central Saint Martins invites us to rethink cooling technology. This design is not only functional but also visually striking. ## Eco-Friendly Materials Xero Cool uses food-safe materials instead of expanded plastic foams and synthetic refrigerants. Bacterial cellulose xerogel and felted wool form the exterior. These materials aim to reduce the environmental impact of conventional fridges. ## Silent and Simple Operation Xero Cool's macrofluidic panels circulate cooled water to draw away heat. With no moving parts, the system operates almost silently. This means far less mechanical complexity compared to standard compressor-based fridges. ## Fighting Climate Change Refrigeration technology accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Xero Cool uses bio-based materials to reduce this impact. Audrey Levy's project highlights the climate crisis by offering a sustainable alternative. ## Aesthetic Meets Function Xero Cool treats the kitchen as both a functional and aesthetic space. Unlike the 'heavy and sterile' look of traditional fridges, it offers an organic and tactile design. This proves sustainable design can also be joyful. ## A Promising Future Project Though still a prototype, Xero Cool could be a turning point in cooling technology. Audrey Levy's work successfully balances design and ecology. This project serves as an inspiring example for future home appliances. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.yankodesign.com/2026/07/24/xero-cool-is-the-anti-fridge-fridge-the-planet-badly-needs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=xero-cool-is-the-anti-fridge-fridge-the-planet-badly-needs — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._