The journey through Made in Italy continues in the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian sea, just a few metres from the coast of Noli, to discover a silent agricultural revolution that the entire world envies and talks about, except in Italy (as usual).
In the sea, underwater where you would normally find only fish and algae, basil, lettuce, and other vegetables are growing in an environment that defies all traditional agricultural logic.
This discovery reminded me of Jules Verne’s novel “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.” I know it’s difficult to believe this news. I too initially struggled to believe it. But dear reader, know that this invention is yet another proof of Italian ingenuity—pure and incredible Italian intelligence. However, to avoid doubts and perplexities, I immediately provide the reference link for your verification:
https://www.nemosgarden.com/visit-nemos-garden
Calling it a truly unique and pioneering project is, in my opinion, really an understatement.
I discovered this invention during a series of research aimed at identifying alternative and healthy methods of agricultural production for an article. That’s how I found the story of Nemo’s Gardens. An incredible and fascinating story that began in 2012 from a revolutionary idea by Sergio Gamberini (praise to this great Italian genius), founder of Ocean Reef Group, a company specialising in underwater equipment. This invention gave birth to what is now recognised as the world’s first Italian underwater greenhouse. We can say it’s a Made in Italy product unique in its kind.
The project represents one of the most innovative frontiers of sustainable agriculture, demonstrating that it’s possible to cultivate even in the most unexpected environments.
The underwater biospheres. Located approximately 40 metres dalla riva, Nemo’s Garden is a system of underwater greenhouses composed of nine modular biospheres, some of which are equipped with advanced hydroponic systems, including an observatory biosphere and one for microgreens cultivation. These structures are anchored to the seabed and harness solar energy and humidity condensation for irrigation, creating a self-sufficient ecosystem with low environmental impact. Inside these underwater structures, basil, lettuce, and other vegetables grow, creating a completely new agricultural ecosystem. This variety of crops highlights the potential of underwater agriculture to adapt to different types of plants and food needs.
Nemo’s Gardens represent a revolutionary approach that doesn’t compete with terrestrial ecosystems but offers an ecological alternative for cultivation in difficult environments. The system guarantees optimal thermal conditions and yields comparable to those of a conventional greenhouse, with a decisive advantage: the absence of additional energy consumption.
This solution opens concrete prospects for coastal communities that need food self-sufficiency and for areas where traditional agriculture is problematic or impossible. The research has also attracted the interest of pharmaceutical industries, opening new frontiers for the production of active ingredients in a controlled marine environment.
Collaborations and future. The project has developed strategic partnerships that accelerate research and development. The collaboration with Siemens has allowed the team to use “digital twins” of the underwater biosphere, demonstrating how advanced digital technologies can support the agricultural innovation of the future.
A project that deserves greater attention from the italian government too. Nemo’s Gardens represent Italian excellence in the panorama of global innovation, yet this revolutionary project still doesn’t receive the media attention and institutional support it deserves. It’s a pioneering technology with enormous potential to address global food challenges.
Sergio Gamberini and his team would deserve broader recognition for having developed such an innovative and sustainable solution. The Italian government should consider this project as a strategic priority, supporting economically and through media this national excellence that could position Italy as a world leader in future agriculture.
Solutions for limited land: ecological alternative for difficult locations. Energy efficiency: yields comparable to traditional greenhouses without additional energy.
Despite foreign recognition, in Italy the initiative still receives little institutional attention (as usual). Valorising an excellence like this would mean strengthening the country’s role in global agricultural innovation and making a concrete contribution to future food sustainability.
What do you think?
This Italian invention has fascinated me, making me understand that there are also sustainable ways to feed our civilisation.
Enrico Sgariboldi
THE MADE IN ITALY COLUMN: THE ITALY WE LOVE
© 2025 Enrico Sgariboldi (Author) – Text registered on Lutinx blockchain to protect against unauthorized reproduction.
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