Floating wetland islands for crop production

Background: Floating wetland islands (FWI) are artificial structures designed to float on water bodies such as lakes, ponds, and canals. These systems typically consist of a buoyant matrix, made from materials like polyethylene foam or recycled plastics, that supports aquatic or semi-aquatic plants. The roots of these plants hang into the water, acting as natural biofilters by absorbing nutrients and pollutants. Recently, FWI have evolved to incorporate edible crops such as rice, lettuce, spinach, mint, and taro, which can thrive in nutrient-rich aquatic environments. This dual functionality, combining environmental remediation with food production, positions FWI as promising Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for sustainable development. Aim: The aim of this study is to identify research trends and knowledge gaps related to the use of FWI for crop production in runoff waters, through a systematic review and bibliometric analysis. Final considerations: FWI systems integrate hydroponic cultivation, ecological engineering, and water quality management, demonstrating their multifunctionality and offering solutions for both ecosystem restoration and sustainable agriculture.