Duckweed Overgrowth Chokes Ghent Waterways as Authorities and Artists Respond
Thick layers of bright green duckweed have blanketed canals and waterways across Ghent, prompting local officials to alter boat tour routes while artists and researchers deploy artificial intelligence to map and reimagine the aquatic spread. The dense vegetation, locally compared to free matcha tea due to its vivid color, has rapidly expanded into neighboring areas including Aalter and Bellem, according to regional reporting by VRT.
Duckweed forces boat operators to cancel long tours
The aggressive growth of duckweed has forced commercial operators to scale back operations on city waters. A Ghent-based shipping company announced it has canceled long boat tours due to the heavy green mats clogging propellers and navigation lanes, though standard shorter routes continue to operate, VRT reported.
Artist uses AI to turn green water into fields
While municipal crews monitor the ecological spread, local artists are using emerging technology to reexamine the phenomenon. A digital artist in Ghent has utilized artificial intelligence to generate conceptual designs that transform the green water surfaces into simulated sports fields, opening a broader discussion about urban space and water management, according to Nieuwsblad.
Geographic Spread Across East Flanders
The duckweed phenomenon is not restricted to urban Ghent canals. Environmental monitors report that the green carpet has expanded significantly into the canal systems of Aalter and Bellem, transforming linear waterways into solid sheets of green, as noted by HLN.
What causes duckweed to multiply in Ghent waters?
Are all boat tours in Ghent canceled?
Long boat tours have been halted by local operators because the thick vegetation jams watercraft, but standard short-duration tours remain operational.
How are artists responding to the duckweed overgrowth?
A Ghent artist has used artificial intelligence tools to create visual concepts that turn the green water surfaces into athletic fields, sparking public discussion about spatial design.
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