A Natural Swimming Pool uses the technology of the reed bed filtration system to cleanse the swimming water. Regular swimming pools use chemicals such as chlorine to kill bacteria (which can damage swimmers’ health and our ozone system), whereas a natural swimming pool uses the natural purifying properties of plants, as well as a small filter to extract surface debris such as leaves, and a small pump to keep the water circulating sufficiently through the planting area.

These pools are designed with two zones: a deep, central swimming area, and a shallower adjacent wetland with plants which are specially chosen to purify the water. This natural filtration bed provides habitat for frogs and other endangered creatures and makes a pleasant water garden.

The largest uptake of Natural Swimming Pools has been in Austria and central Europe where the technology was refined, but they are now increasingly designed for clients in the USA and elsewhere.

Have a look at this short clip from our friends at Permaculture Media in the UK ( there are many more good clips on their YouTube site as well):