The design for this tunnel in Eindhoven, entitled "Fireflies", refers to Biolight, a technological innovation from Philips in which bacteria are used as energy-free lighting. The inspiration came from studying light-giving organisms such as fireflies, glow-worms, jellyfish... (biomimicry). The phenomenon of bioluminescence is the result of a chemical reaction in which an enzyme (luciferase) reacts with a luminous molecule (luciferin).

Biolight is part of a wider project - Microbial Home by Philips Design - which uses an 'integrated cycling ecosystem' to recycle traditional household waste through bacteria. These bio-innovations redefine energy consumption in the home, but can also be applied as lighting in public spaces. As you can see in the design, these 'glowing plants' illuminate road verges, tunnels and covered passages, serve as warning strips on stairs, or provide atmospheric light in parks and squares.