What if you could grow a bridge instead of building one?

In parts of the world, people have created living bridges using the roots of trees. Instead of pouring concrete or assembling steel, they guide living roots into strong structures that can eventually support people crossing rivers and ravines.

The Bridges That Are Grown Instead of Built explores the remarkable tradition of living root bridges and the relationship between engineering, biology, and the natural world.

In Meghalaya, India, communities have traditionally worked with the aerial roots of rubber fig trees. Roots are guided across gaps using temporary structures such as bamboo or other supports.

Over many years, the roots grow, intertwine, thicken, and become increasingly integrated into the landscape.

Unlike a conventional bridge, the structure isn't s ...