Biotop Sustainable Pools

Why is it so easy to daydream in beautiful weather? I don't know about you, but my mind always starts to wander to thoughts of cool, clean rivers and lakes. Swimming in the natural world can't be beat, but in case you're looking for a quick dip a little closer to home, there have been some exciting developments in sustainable pool building and maintenance. Biotop pools seem to be leading the industry, with an innovative design that uses part of the pool (separated by a wall below the water level) as an aquatic garden for plants like water lilies that filter the water. The water is naturally cleaned and warmed by the sun in this relatively shallow part of the pool before flowing back into the main area and repeating the cycle. These elegant pools are customized in design and plant life to suit each customer's natural environment, though all have a unique, distinctive beauty. Unfortunately, while they're quickly catching on throughout Europe, Biotop pools are not yet available in the United States. In the meantime, try this solar-powered robotic pool cleaner, which saves energy and reduces the need for chemical additives. Another easy tip is to keep your pool covered when you're not using it. This relatively small effort can save a great deal of water over the course of the swim season, and may also reduce pollution from pool chemicals. Even if you don't have a pool, keep swimming in mind when you're looking for fun in the coming months. It's a truly refreshing excuse to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors.