Floaty ARC
Basic information
Project Title
Floaty ARC
Full project title
Resilience: Regeneration and Redevelopment of the Industrial Zone of Taranto
Category
Shaping a circular industrial ecosystem and supporting life-cycle thinking
Project Description
Our project seeks inspiration from the art of design throughout history to create sustainable and ethical spaces and structures. Above all, it aims to break free from the limitations that have held back both humanity and the environment. The revitalization of industrial and non-industrial areas can promote not only the social interaction lost after years of the pandemic but also the integration of scientific research into everyday life through harmonious spaces.
Geographical Scope
Local
Project Region
milan, Italy
Urban or rural issues
It addresses urban-rural linkages
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
Floaty ARC is the project of a startup founded by young Italian students. It represents an urban redevelopment initiative, primarily targeting industrial zones, with the aim of presenting sustainable alternatives that are simultaneously aesthetically innovative compared to conventional industrial practices for purifying liquid waste. As part of this effort, we have designed a park featuring an outdoor theater and an industrial targeted phytodepuration system, a wastewater management technique developed by our research and development team.
The overarching objective is to introduce a concept of urban space in challenging areas, such as degraded or industrial zones, where environmental needs find a harmonious balance with economic, social, and industrial requirements. We believe that the society of the future requires increasingly diversified resources, envisioning architecture as a responsive entity that listens to the demands of every social and economic class, thus becoming genuinely inclusive.
With this conceptual framework, we have achieved significant results both in terms of technical design and collaborations with public and private entities. Floaty ARC has a positive impact on the industrial sector by redesigning traditional purification systems, which prove inefficient in degrading organic molecules harmful to health and the ecosystem. It also influences society by aspiring to make the industrial environment livable and shareable, and it places the individual at the center of their own existence rather than at the center of the world.
Floaty ARC aims to be an extremely versatile and customizable project, capable of adapting to every request, visitor, and the entire ecosystem. This approach eliminates the societal adaptation process in space, thereby curbing the continuous and unhealthy pursuit of exploitation and environmental enslavement.
The overarching objective is to introduce a concept of urban space in challenging areas, such as degraded or industrial zones, where environmental needs find a harmonious balance with economic, social, and industrial requirements. We believe that the society of the future requires increasingly diversified resources, envisioning architecture as a responsive entity that listens to the demands of every social and economic class, thus becoming genuinely inclusive.
With this conceptual framework, we have achieved significant results both in terms of technical design and collaborations with public and private entities. Floaty ARC has a positive impact on the industrial sector by redesigning traditional purification systems, which prove inefficient in degrading organic molecules harmful to health and the ecosystem. It also influences society by aspiring to make the industrial environment livable and shareable, and it places the individual at the center of their own existence rather than at the center of the world.
Floaty ARC aims to be an extremely versatile and customizable project, capable of adapting to every request, visitor, and the entire ecosystem. This approach eliminates the societal adaptation process in space, thereby curbing the continuous and unhealthy pursuit of exploitation and environmental enslavement.
Key objectives for sustainability
Our sustainability objectives are at the core of our mission to enhance the quality of life in industrial and urban areas while minimizing our environmental footprint. We are focused on three pivotal aspects: achieving energy self-sufficiency, purifying industrial and urban wastewater through phytodepuration, and cleansing the air. These aims are pivotal in shaping a sustainable future for future generations.
Energy self-sufficiency is a linchpin of our project. We firmly advocate the use of renewable sources to meet our energy demands. To this end, we harness four distinct energy sources: solar, wind, hydro, and biofermentation. Solar panels capture the sun's energy, wind turbines harness the power of the wind, the motion of water within the phytodepuration system generates hydroelectric energy, and biofermentation converts organic waste and bacteria into biogas. This diversification renders us self-reliant in terms of electricity and allows us to make a substantial contribution to the transition toward cleaner energy.
Phytodepuration is the cornerstone of our project. Our startup enters the wastewater treatment market by introducing an alternative approach to current systems, which are incapable of breaking down molecules harmful to the ecosystem and human health. Through th
Air purification constitutes another integral element of our mission. We incorporate vegetation as an essential component of the phytodepuration process, aiding in the reduction of atmospheric pollution. We firmly believe that clean air is fundamental to the well-being of urban and industrial communities.
These objectives, firmly grounded in ethical and environmental principles, have the potential to significantly contribute to the revitalization of abandoned or declining industrial and urban areas. The creation of more sustainable and habitable spaces is a fundamental aspect of our mission, and we hold that our holistic approach to sustainability is the path to a brighter future for all
Energy self-sufficiency is a linchpin of our project. We firmly advocate the use of renewable sources to meet our energy demands. To this end, we harness four distinct energy sources: solar, wind, hydro, and biofermentation. Solar panels capture the sun's energy, wind turbines harness the power of the wind, the motion of water within the phytodepuration system generates hydroelectric energy, and biofermentation converts organic waste and bacteria into biogas. This diversification renders us self-reliant in terms of electricity and allows us to make a substantial contribution to the transition toward cleaner energy.
Phytodepuration is the cornerstone of our project. Our startup enters the wastewater treatment market by introducing an alternative approach to current systems, which are incapable of breaking down molecules harmful to the ecosystem and human health. Through th
Air purification constitutes another integral element of our mission. We incorporate vegetation as an essential component of the phytodepuration process, aiding in the reduction of atmospheric pollution. We firmly believe that clean air is fundamental to the well-being of urban and industrial communities.
These objectives, firmly grounded in ethical and environmental principles, have the potential to significantly contribute to the revitalization of abandoned or declining industrial and urban areas. The creation of more sustainable and habitable spaces is a fundamental aspect of our mission, and we hold that our holistic approach to sustainability is the path to a brighter future for all
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
Our project aims to enhance the aesthetic beauty of cities; we intend to redevelop industrial or urban areas by introducing cultural and recreational elements. We believe that nature in contexts where it has yet to be developed can contribute to the creation of an environment in which culture and communal activities can form an intimate nest for self-discovery and the cultivation of curiosity about the world.
We have designed architectural and design modules that seek to integrate with both human-made and natural environments. Straight lines merging into curved lines inspired by the spontaneity of plants. We have decided to redefine the concept of a park and a theater, merging them into a symbiosis where nature meets art, creating a harmony of experiences that bring culture into a subjective, personal, and embryonic context.
We drew inspiration from the malleability of the shape of plant cells, lungs, and natural topographies, the fluid modularity of patterns, dichromatism, and land art, as well as the exchange of ideas from theater, roundtable discussions, and libraries. Our goal is to evoke positive emotions and cultural benefits through harmonious spaces that mold themselves to both individuals and nature, without altering one another based on architecture, thus changing their way of being.
We aimed to create an architectural composition that aligns with the landscape, preserving the natural horizon. We chose to propose solutions with eco-friendly materials that can create a balance of colors and visual rhythms, such as recycled plastic, wood, or recycled metal sheets. We selected plants rarely used in architecture but with immense potential: macrophytes (Phragmites and Typha).
We have designed architectural and design modules that seek to integrate with both human-made and natural environments. Straight lines merging into curved lines inspired by the spontaneity of plants. We have decided to redefine the concept of a park and a theater, merging them into a symbiosis where nature meets art, creating a harmony of experiences that bring culture into a subjective, personal, and embryonic context.
We drew inspiration from the malleability of the shape of plant cells, lungs, and natural topographies, the fluid modularity of patterns, dichromatism, and land art, as well as the exchange of ideas from theater, roundtable discussions, and libraries. Our goal is to evoke positive emotions and cultural benefits through harmonious spaces that mold themselves to both individuals and nature, without altering one another based on architecture, thus changing their way of being.
We aimed to create an architectural composition that aligns with the landscape, preserving the natural horizon. We chose to propose solutions with eco-friendly materials that can create a balance of colors and visual rhythms, such as recycled plastic, wood, or recycled metal sheets. We selected plants rarely used in architecture but with immense potential: macrophytes (Phragmites and Typha).
Key objectives for inclusion
In order to create an inclusive environment, we have studied how design can have positive effects and cultural, social, and environmental benefits. We started by identifying environmental issues, particularly water pollution that can jeopardize citizens' health, especially in industrial areas. We also considered socio-cultural problems, including discrimination, the decline of traditional culture, organized crime, social disparities, and architectural barriers. Additionally, we addressed human issues such as mental health problems, lack of respect, and social isolation.
Following this process, we sought solutions to these problems, aligning them with new social models. We identified key themes on which to build and base Floaty ARC: targeted phytodepuration, a place for cultural discovery and dialogue, bridging the gap between old and new generations, urban regeneration, spaces accessible to all, modern and efficient facilities, welcoming spaces where people can feel comfortable, a place to listen to others, and fluid, organic spaces.
Our young team strongly believes that inclusion is the key to true progress and is confident that it relies on the ability to listen and be heard. Therefore, we have designed an extremely versatile environment that can accommodate many people and, in turn, many stories. Our project offers various atmospheres and perspectives: you can seek shelter under the modules, immerse yourself among the macrophytes, or recline on suspended nets. This allows individuals to feel comfortable, making Floaty ARC a place that can welcome and include everyone. Additionally, we have designed inclusive benches, adaptable for people in wheelchairs or with strollers, ensuring that every corner of the park is accessible to everyone.
In our vision, everyone can be included.
Following this process, we sought solutions to these problems, aligning them with new social models. We identified key themes on which to build and base Floaty ARC: targeted phytodepuration, a place for cultural discovery and dialogue, bridging the gap between old and new generations, urban regeneration, spaces accessible to all, modern and efficient facilities, welcoming spaces where people can feel comfortable, a place to listen to others, and fluid, organic spaces.
Our young team strongly believes that inclusion is the key to true progress and is confident that it relies on the ability to listen and be heard. Therefore, we have designed an extremely versatile environment that can accommodate many people and, in turn, many stories. Our project offers various atmospheres and perspectives: you can seek shelter under the modules, immerse yourself among the macrophytes, or recline on suspended nets. This allows individuals to feel comfortable, making Floaty ARC a place that can welcome and include everyone. Additionally, we have designed inclusive benches, adaptable for people in wheelchairs or with strollers, ensuring that every corner of the park is accessible to everyone.
In our vision, everyone can be included.
How Citizens benefit
The Floaty ARC project is born with a focus on environmental care and the well-being of citizens. It is a natural park composed of cutting-edge, ergonomic, and scientifically advanced structures designed to fully achieve our objectives. Our aim is to create an environment where citizens feel embraced and part of a sustainable, green space, suitable for various purposes, while also raising awareness of environmental health issues.
Simultaneously, the park serves as a purification system, our secondary goal, making Floaty ARC an excellent resource both in environmental and cultural aspects. Having a park of this kind means providing citizens with a green space for leisure. With the knowledge that it's an eco-friendly facility, it becomes even more inviting for people to spend time there and participate in any intercultural activities offered within.
Floaty ARC is a highly adaptable and modifiable park. It doesn't start as a static entity but as a structure with components that can be utilized and developed in the future. Therefore, we can use citizen feedback to understand their needs and easily modify the structure, as we aim to ensure that citizens feel included and heard.
Simultaneously, the park serves as a purification system, our secondary goal, making Floaty ARC an excellent resource both in environmental and cultural aspects. Having a park of this kind means providing citizens with a green space for leisure. With the knowledge that it's an eco-friendly facility, it becomes even more inviting for people to spend time there and participate in any intercultural activities offered within.
Floaty ARC is a highly adaptable and modifiable park. It doesn't start as a static entity but as a structure with components that can be utilized and developed in the future. Therefore, we can use citizen feedback to understand their needs and easily modify the structure, as we aim to ensure that citizens feel included and heard.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
The innovative character of the project is evident both in its aesthetics, inclusivity, and technical aspects.
Regarding the aesthetic aspect of the project, we followed a process that aimed to mimic a natural process: the genesis of an architectural complex. The youthful age of our team members allowed us to approach the design with a spontaneous and fresh perspective. Our unique worldview led us to establish a critical and constructive judgment towards the contemporary reality. This resulted in the design of forms and compositions that could adapt to the needs of individuals, society, and the environment.
In terms of inclusivity, a topic closely related to the younger generations, we decided to approach it with both a computational and human spirit to ensure that the user's experience is thoroughly considered in every aspect. This approach allowed us to innovate beyond the traditional and often ineffective and forced inclusive design methods driven by laws and regulations, without capturing the essence of the potential for common and universal living through architecture.
Regarding technical innovation, which is perhaps the most visible yet often distant from the daily experience of individuals, it is the result of an extensive process of technical and scientific research. The integration of STEM disciplines, now prevalent in everyday actions, enabled us to develop efficient techniques for water purification. Traditional methods on the market often fall short in sustainably purifying substances harmful to the ecosystem. Our startup has studied bacterial strains and species for the natural degradation of specific molecules in combination with macrophytes. We have thus developed targeted phytodepuration, a new and improved technique for industrial and urban purification.
Floaty ARC can represent the first step towards innovation.
Regarding the aesthetic aspect of the project, we followed a process that aimed to mimic a natural process: the genesis of an architectural complex. The youthful age of our team members allowed us to approach the design with a spontaneous and fresh perspective. Our unique worldview led us to establish a critical and constructive judgment towards the contemporary reality. This resulted in the design of forms and compositions that could adapt to the needs of individuals, society, and the environment.
In terms of inclusivity, a topic closely related to the younger generations, we decided to approach it with both a computational and human spirit to ensure that the user's experience is thoroughly considered in every aspect. This approach allowed us to innovate beyond the traditional and often ineffective and forced inclusive design methods driven by laws and regulations, without capturing the essence of the potential for common and universal living through architecture.
Regarding technical innovation, which is perhaps the most visible yet often distant from the daily experience of individuals, it is the result of an extensive process of technical and scientific research. The integration of STEM disciplines, now prevalent in everyday actions, enabled us to develop efficient techniques for water purification. Traditional methods on the market often fall short in sustainably purifying substances harmful to the ecosystem. Our startup has studied bacterial strains and species for the natural degradation of specific molecules in combination with macrophytes. We have thus developed targeted phytodepuration, a new and improved technique for industrial and urban purification.
Floaty ARC can represent the first step towards innovation.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
Floaty ARC is a park that arises from the desire to make an ecologically impactful scientific project a part of reality. The study conducted on the design of the various structures that make up the park is not merely the result of an architectural project but rather a long scientific project that has spanned several years, allowing us to blend science and design. Specifically, the creation of seating adorned with plantations of phragmites serves not only the beautification of the complex but also represents a green and eco-sustainable alternative for wastewater purification through targeted phytodepuration. Each planter is equipped with a water pumping system and a bacterial inoculation system, which, thanks to the plant's capabilities combined with the reaction of the previously selected bacterial strains inoculated into it, would make the water in the surrounding area less toxic and more treatable. The combination of this pumping/filtration system would create a semi-autonomous and 24/7 usable water purification cycle.
In addition to the scientific study, we conducted a psychological analysis related to the needs and requirements of the citizens. The creation of a public, open, and green park would have a significant impact on the surrounding society and would promote social awareness regarding water pollution and water wastage, which are currently under-discussed, especially in schools. Furthermore, the presence of study areas and a stage suitable for public concerts would facilitate the creation of a new communal public space for cultural and public events, encouraging outdoor activities.
The combination of these ideas, stemming from different fields, has allowed us to create a new, innovative park that is open to the future. It is not merely an artificial structure for the enjoyment of citizens but also acts to improve the planet. For this reason, we consider it a vital component, operating as an essential part of nature itself.
In addition to the scientific study, we conducted a psychological analysis related to the needs and requirements of the citizens. The creation of a public, open, and green park would have a significant impact on the surrounding society and would promote social awareness regarding water pollution and water wastage, which are currently under-discussed, especially in schools. Furthermore, the presence of study areas and a stage suitable for public concerts would facilitate the creation of a new communal public space for cultural and public events, encouraging outdoor activities.
The combination of these ideas, stemming from different fields, has allowed us to create a new, innovative park that is open to the future. It is not merely an artificial structure for the enjoyment of citizens but also acts to improve the planet. For this reason, we consider it a vital component, operating as an essential part of nature itself.
Methodology used
The members of our young team belong to the so-called Generation Z. Therefore, we decided to approach our project with one of the characteristics that best represents individuals in the lowermost tier of a social pyramid: a critical perspective toward reality. We aimed to observe our territory and, more broadly, our planet with a critical eye, not in an accusatory or vindictive spirit but rather in a constructive manner. We believe that accusations and the so-called "pointing fingers" approach cannot lead to healthy evolution and progress. Consequently, we identified various issues (environmental, socio-cultural, and human) and proposed solutions through the art and architecture of design.
We began by sketching shapes and ideas on paper, drawing inspiration from nature and beyond, and later translated these concepts into a final project using 3D design software. Unfortunately, due to budget constraints, we couldn't afford the full version of the program, preventing us from coloring the 3D project to our liking. Rather than viewing this apparent problem as a hindrance, we decided that, in line with the project's customization and adaptability principles, it could be an asset not to impose specific and unalterable materials and colors. This allows potential users and visitors of Floaty ARC to imagine their preferred version of the project and provide feedback for hypothetical realization.
The final design phase occurred concurrently with ongoing discussions with diverse individuals, from architects to doctors, sociologists to students, unemployed individuals to retirees. This enabled us to create a space that doesn't force those who inhabit it to change to fit in; instead, the architecture molds itself based on the requests and needs of the people to ensure a unique, personalized, and inclusive experience.
We began by sketching shapes and ideas on paper, drawing inspiration from nature and beyond, and later translated these concepts into a final project using 3D design software. Unfortunately, due to budget constraints, we couldn't afford the full version of the program, preventing us from coloring the 3D project to our liking. Rather than viewing this apparent problem as a hindrance, we decided that, in line with the project's customization and adaptability principles, it could be an asset not to impose specific and unalterable materials and colors. This allows potential users and visitors of Floaty ARC to imagine their preferred version of the project and provide feedback for hypothetical realization.
The final design phase occurred concurrently with ongoing discussions with diverse individuals, from architects to doctors, sociologists to students, unemployed individuals to retirees. This enabled us to create a space that doesn't force those who inhabit it to change to fit in; instead, the architecture molds itself based on the requests and needs of the people to ensure a unique, personalized, and inclusive experience.
How stakeholders are engaged
Our project has received support from various institutions and organizations. The first of these is the Ettore Majorana High School in the city of Rho, in the province of Milan. It is a high school with scientific and linguistic programs. Our startup, Floaty, has established a collaboration with this public institution, which has not only provided the expertise of its staff (teachers and technicians) but also their facilities, particularly the biology and chemistry laboratories. This collaboration has enabled us to concretize and realize the scientific research aspect of our project.
Another organization that has supported us in this project is the Ettore Majorana Rho Parents Association, an organization that offers enhancement activities to students at Ettore Majorana High School in Rho, featuring experts from various fields such as architects, doctors, and psychologists. Thanks to this association, we had the opportunity to consult with specialized advisors.
In order to create a comprehensive project, we conducted research and contacted local, national, and international companies to understand the challenges they face, particularly in the realm of environmental sustainability. This allowed us to find a common ground between environmental impact and human impact, proposing an alternative to current industrial purification systems.
Another significant aspect of our project involved conducting interviews with volunteers of different ages, genders, and orientations to gain a diverse range of ideas and perspectives to incorporate into the project.
Another organization that has supported us in this project is the Ettore Majorana Rho Parents Association, an organization that offers enhancement activities to students at Ettore Majorana High School in Rho, featuring experts from various fields such as architects, doctors, and psychologists. Thanks to this association, we had the opportunity to consult with specialized advisors.
In order to create a comprehensive project, we conducted research and contacted local, national, and international companies to understand the challenges they face, particularly in the realm of environmental sustainability. This allowed us to find a common ground between environmental impact and human impact, proposing an alternative to current industrial purification systems.
Another significant aspect of our project involved conducting interviews with volunteers of different ages, genders, and orientations to gain a diverse range of ideas and perspectives to incorporate into the project.
Global challenges
Our Floaty ARC project addresses significant global challenges by providing innovative local solutions. Drawing from the United Nations' Agenda 2030, we have identified key objectives that our park is committed to achieving.
Floaty ARC responds to global challenges, including combating poverty, improving health and well-being, providing quality education, promoting gender equality, and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. Our park creates accessible green spaces in urban areas, enhancing the quality of life for citizens and promoting physical and mental well-being. We foster social interaction, reducing disparities by offering recreational opportunities accessible to all community members, regardless of age, gender, or economic situation.
Furthermore, Floaty ARC supports the goal of "Responsible Consumption and Production" by utilizing eco-friendly materials and responsibly managing water resources. Our park also serves as an educational tool, raising awareness about environmental issues and contributing to the objective of "Quality Education."
Floaty ARC incorporates eco-sustainable features, such as phytodepuration and the use of renewable energy for lighting, contributing to the "Climate Action" goal and reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, we promote cultural diversity and art within the park, fostering the "Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions" objective by creating spaces where culture and art promote understanding and dialogue among local communities.
In summary, Floaty ARC addresses global challenges by offering local solutions through the implementation of an innovative park aligned with the goals of Agenda 2030. This contributes to building a more sustainable and inclusive future within our community
Floaty ARC responds to global challenges, including combating poverty, improving health and well-being, providing quality education, promoting gender equality, and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. Our park creates accessible green spaces in urban areas, enhancing the quality of life for citizens and promoting physical and mental well-being. We foster social interaction, reducing disparities by offering recreational opportunities accessible to all community members, regardless of age, gender, or economic situation.
Furthermore, Floaty ARC supports the goal of "Responsible Consumption and Production" by utilizing eco-friendly materials and responsibly managing water resources. Our park also serves as an educational tool, raising awareness about environmental issues and contributing to the objective of "Quality Education."
Floaty ARC incorporates eco-sustainable features, such as phytodepuration and the use of renewable energy for lighting, contributing to the "Climate Action" goal and reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, we promote cultural diversity and art within the park, fostering the "Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions" objective by creating spaces where culture and art promote understanding and dialogue among local communities.
In summary, Floaty ARC addresses global challenges by offering local solutions through the implementation of an innovative park aligned with the goals of Agenda 2030. This contributes to building a more sustainable and inclusive future within our community
Learning transferred to other parties
The Floaty ARC project is highly replicable and transferable thanks to several key features. The modularity of the system allows for the adaptation of its components to different locations and contexts. The innovative methodology is highly flexible, enabling customization based on local needs and environmental conditions. Specifically, the phytodepuration processes can be effectively adapted to various global ecosystems, regardless of soil, climate, and pollutants.
Modularity is essential, enabling adaptation to the specific requirements of different geographical areas and sizes. For example, Floaty ARC modules can be implemented in small villages or densely populated urban settings, providing customized solutions.
The innovative methodology is highly adaptable, allowing for the addressing of water-related challenges in various contexts. The phytodepuration approach can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different ecosystems.
Furthermore, the project promotes the sharing of knowledge and best practices acquired during implementation, contributing to the dissemination of expertise and the improvement of similar projects worldwide.
In summary, Floaty ARC is a highly replicable project due to its modularity, methodological flexibility, and adaptability to local contexts. These characteristics make it a valuable resource for addressing water-related environmental challenges worldwide.
Modularity is essential, enabling adaptation to the specific requirements of different geographical areas and sizes. For example, Floaty ARC modules can be implemented in small villages or densely populated urban settings, providing customized solutions.
The innovative methodology is highly adaptable, allowing for the addressing of water-related challenges in various contexts. The phytodepuration approach can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different ecosystems.
Furthermore, the project promotes the sharing of knowledge and best practices acquired during implementation, contributing to the dissemination of expertise and the improvement of similar projects worldwide.
In summary, Floaty ARC is a highly replicable project due to its modularity, methodological flexibility, and adaptability to local contexts. These characteristics make it a valuable resource for addressing water-related environmental challenges worldwide.
Keywords
Redevelopment and inclusion
Health
Biodesign
Circular and ethics economy
Phytoremediation
