Plants capture nutrients
Root systems take up nitrogen and phosphorus compounds that can promote algal blooms when present in excess.
A nature-based solution for water
A living island for cleaner water.
A floating treatment wetland that uses plant roots and microorganisms to capture nutrients, create habitat and restore balance to aquatic ecosystems.
Discover BioFloat ↓3BioFloat pilot sites in Latvia and Estonia within the Interreg project
Why BioFloat
Nature treats water.
We create the space.
BioFloat recreates the functions of a natural wetland directly on the water surface. Its root zone becomes a living filter where biological processes take place and new habitat develops.
3treatment mechanisms
200 kgtechnical prototype frame capacity
2024Skill Up prototype installed in the field
Interreg Estonia–Latvia 2021–2027Part of the cross-border
Part of the cross-border
BioFloat context.
The European BioFloat project EE‑LV00026 develops and tests floating islands as elements of urban green infrastructure. Three pilot sites in Latvia and Estonia assess their capacity to strengthen biodiversity, improve aquatic ecosystem quality and reduce human-made pollution.
The Skill Up technical prototype and buoyancy model presented on this website are separate development materials. Refer to the programme and partner websites for official project information and results.
EE‑LV00026project number
2023–2027project period
3 islandstwo in Latvia, one in Estonia
7 partnersresearch, NGOs and municipalities
How it worksOne island. Multiple
One island. Multiple
ecosystem benefits.
The floating structure supports the planting substrate while roots extend freely into the water and create a large active surface area.
Microorganisms form biofilm
Microorganisms living on the roots help break down organic matter and undesirable compounds.
Biodiversity returns
The island provides shelter for insects, birds and aquatic organisms while fitting naturally into the landscape.
From concept to water
A field-tested prototype
The triangular module was built, installed in a pond and observed under real operating conditions.
- ✓Sealed, durable HDPE floating frame
- ✓Stainless-steel mesh for structural support
- ✓Coconut fibre and wood-mulch substrate
- ✓Native aquatic plants with developed root systems
Engineering model
Test the structure’s buoyancy
Adjust the prototype parameters and calculate the approximate permissible load at a selected draft.
Prototype journalBuilt in the workshop.
Built in the workshop.
Tested in nature.
Technical prototype · Skill UpLet’s create a more
Let’s create a more
living waterscape.
This prototype combines ecological principles, practical testing and engineering buoyancy calculations in one adaptable solution.
Try the model →