Floating Plant Islands Purified Pond Water at Balikesir University

Balikesir University launched a pilot study at its Botanical Garden to purify pond water using an innovative “floating island” system. The project applied bioremediation, using plants to remove contaminants and toxins from water.

The floating platforms hosted plant species with high water-purification potential, with roots submerged and stems above the surface to filter nutrients and pollutants naturally. The research tested the plants’ survival, bioremediation efficiency, and provided scientific data on filtration effectiveness.

The project also offered students hands-on experience in sustainable technology and scientific research. Organizers said the method provided a nature-based solution for restoring urban and natural wetlands. If successful, it could be scaled to clean larger lakes and urban water reservoirs across Turkiye.