5 Benefits of Vertical Farming

Farming, an activity normally reserved for rural areas, might soon take to the cities ““ vertically.

By the year 2050, the world’s population is approx. to get out a staggering 9 billion, requiring the production of at least 70 percent more food to meet the average global consumption. This rapid develop in population has put a new item of business on the table when it comes to food.  It’s become imperative that the method we grow our food is effective and efficient. A spoiled crop would be a major blow. A drought? Catastrophic.

By 2050, the world will be in dire require of an innovative solution. One such solution is Vertical farming in mumbai, an agricultural technique that relies on hydroponics (placing seeds in a solution of minerals dissolved in water) to get bigger crops year-round. The farming takes place in greenhouses stacked one on top of the other to make a massive greenhouse skyscraper able to feeding thousands.

And it turns out he’s not the only one. Numerous vertical farm building designs have been generated over the past few years, all modern architectural feats and more visually striking than the next, but the question remains: are these buildings the good solution to avoiding global food shortages?

Plantagon combats this issue by harvesting all of their plants on ground level before placing their crops in small trays on a spiraling mechanical track that will push the trays up and down the building to make sure each crop will receive an even distribution of light. It’s similar to a conveyor belt, but instead of assembling Ford Model Ts, crops are whisked up and down so they can breathe, soak in sunlight, and thrive in this man-made ecosystem.

And despite the initial start up costs required to fund this original idea, this new method of farming will save energy and conserve water as a percentage of the water used for cultivation is being recycled frequently rather than being used once for a single harvest.

Not only has Plantagon generated a sustainable and profitable vertical farm, they have also opened up discussions about urban agriculture.

Along with generating a vertical farm, the building now called the International Centre of Excellence for Urban Agriculture will also serve as a think tank and research lab for scientists to test out new green method and come up with solutions to combat urban pollution. And the Urban Agriculture Summit 2013 will be the second meeting that brings together scholars, politicians, and entrepreneurs from all over the world to talk about viable green options for the future of food production.

Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of vertical farming companies and how it could potentially affect the way we lead our lives…

Grow what you want: In demand fruits and veggies can be increased all year round despite changes in weather

Know your food is pesticide free: Instead of fretting about whether or not your food will make you sick, this all organic approach promises fresh and toxin-free produce

Reconnect with nature: If you’ve ever had the desire to work the land, you’re in luck. The title of “urban farmer” might be a legitimate occupation in the close future.

Preserve the environment: Rather than having to venture into the rainforest and harm the last few remaining untouched parts of the earth, we can help preserve the environment and grow our food in cities.

More Affordable Produce: Although start up costs are high, it is a cost effective model that will save money down the line.