Ocean Vortex: A Spiraling Floating Parliament from Recycled Marine Waste

Yufeng Tu's Ocean Vortex, a visionary floating parliament, reached the finals of the 2026 YAC competition Ocean Parliament. This design aims to draw attention to plastic islands in the Pacific and the issue of marine pollution, taking on a swirling vortex shape influenced by wave and wind dynamics. It incorporates distinct entrances for visitors, leading to exhibition and museum areas focused on marine pollution, and for participants, accessing parliament and meeting spaces. Constructed with a steel framework utilizing recycled marine debris, such as abandoned plastic barrels and containers, the structure promotes buoyancy. Solar panels on the roof provide energy, while underwater areas support hydroponic farming, energy conversion, and desalination. Its adaptable seabed anchorage accommodates tidal changes, merging sustainability, public education, and governance into a striking design.