Over the last 15 years, vertical produce farming has been discussed in various news mediums. More recently, though, many researchers believe this framework for food production is viable, sustainable, and could be the future of urban farming.
Proponents say vertical farming takes all the weather uncertainty out of food production and gives way to the ability to produce fresh, local, and year round at a lesser risk of drought or an invasive pest outbreak. Additionally, there would be environmental benefit due to reduced fuel used during shipping and production. Vertical farming setups are often on rooftops, in warehouses or shipping containers. Some supplement with natural light, but primarily rely on indoor lighting technologies. These structures contain a closed water system, equating to little or no agricultural run-off, and often can offer an environment for organic production without the need for herbicides, pesticides, or fertigation materials.
Scaling this production model is still under development as technology evolves. These facilities require large amounts of electricity and substantial labor. Urban location and the proximity to consumers for the final product is a benefit.
Kevin Robson | 517-679-5353
MFB: #36 Urban Farming