There is an islet that wanders around the Mediterranean. A small structure, tiny indeed, entirely assembled with 1 cm thick layers of cork: the resistance necessary to support an adequate layer of soil for plants and vegetation. Its lightness allows it to stay afloat to host and help marine life.
Underwater geometries
The geometric variations of the islet (which even on purpose they called "Isolotto", in a creative impulse with rare precedents) appear as inverted hills. Mounds and valleys serve as thriving habitats for diverse types of invertebrates, mosses and plants.
Above the water line, the designers Angelo Reindeer (Florentine) e Apurva Baldawa they created a small sheltered concave area to house a section with bushes and plants that could withstand the high winds.
The fundamental role of the biodegradable island is played by the external layer, which facilitates the growth of plants, vegetation and microorganisms that naturally 'occupy' its area, encouraging the creation of new habitats.
An island in evolution
The outer layer of the islet is made of plaster: the non-toxic material derived from calcium and sulfate provides a fine powder that can be mixed with water to form a malleable paste.
Through rigorous testing, it has been determined that gypsum degrades at a slower rate than clay and terracotta. These characteristics prolong the life of the structure and favor the process of transformation of Isolotto into other non-toxic components such as nutrients, bacteria and minerals in a more natural and gradual way.
Projects for the future
Isolotto is a project that shows us how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. A biodegradable island that not only offers a refuge for marine life, but also turns into a positive contribution to the marine ecosystem.
I find the idea of a biodegradable island that serves as a habitat for marine life fascinating and innovative. We can always use technology and science to work with, rather than against, nature. If only there were islands like this in the oceans, instead of those made of rubbish.
Matter of intentions.
