Researchers from the Free University of Bolzano and the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) have developed a biodegradable hydrogel made entirely from natural materials — eco-friendly, compostable, and incredibly water-efficient — allowing plants to grow without soil and with minimal water use.
Dr. Camilla Febo explained that the goal was to create an easy-to-use, sustainable material that supports healthy plant growth. The hydrogel works like a sponge — it absorbs large amounts of water and slowly releases it, ensuring plants stay hydrated with far less irrigation.
Made from carrageenan (a red seaweed extract commonly used in food and cosmetics) and additional seaweed extracts, the gel also provides natural growth stimulants that help plants absorb nutrients better and tolerate harsh conditions.
Lab tests in Bolzano using Arabidopsis thaliana showed the hydrogel can absorb up to 7000% of its weight in water and even outperform traditional hydroponic materials in supporting plant growth.
Next, the team plans to embed smart sensors into the hydrogel to monitor plant health and soil moisture in real time — giving farmers data-driven insights without guesswork.
As Luisa Petti, head of the sensor team at UniBz, said:
“Technology should make the world better, not just smarter. This project shows how innovation can truly benefit both people and the planet.”
This bio-based hydrogel isn’t just a new invention — it’s a vision of sustainable agriculture, where farming uses fewer resources, produces more food, and leaves no waste behind.
