While the concrete jungles of cities around the world have blossomed with new color from urban farming, there is still a seldom discussed space that is largely untapped by protected horticulture - our waterways. Now the world is catching wind of an innovative technology from Serbian yacht design company Salt & Water - its floating greenhouse the 'Eco Barge'.

Anchored on the banks of the Danube River in the Serbian capital Belgrade, Salt & Water's project is aimed at acquainting the city's citizens with vertical gardens and efficient irrigation systems that can be used in limited spaces. 

Speaking with www.freshfruitportal.com, spokesperson Branka Malenica says the model pilot vessel doesn't have a motor, but it is able to produce its own energy with the help of two solar panels on a central terrace and four windmills on the roof.

The energy produced by these systems is used to provide light and electricity for a small training office in the interior, with an "eco-friendly" recycled water system for irrigation.

"As the barge is self-sustaining, there is no need for any other energy supply apart from the energy the barge produces itself," Malenica explains.

She says the panels are placed on the terrace in such a way that even when the vessel moves, they will always be facing the sun.

"The greenhouse or barge is also open to the public and has an educational purpose. It is very useful to show the panels placed there, as visitors can see for themselves how solar technology really works.

"We think sustainable and ecological projects like these can generate a big environmental impact in occupied urban areas," she says, adding the gardens will be capable of growing all kinds of crops.

www.freshfruitportal.com