With this short piece, I aim to learn as much as possible about a topic. I have picked four topics (4 separate articles) focused on the growing influence of technology on the real estate sector. The other articles are about Urban Parking, VTOLs, and Smart Buildings.
Urban Farming
Urban Farming
What is it? The name says it all. Growing farms in urban areas. So what you would usually produce in a field, but in urban areas. The main differentiator is that these can be done from anywhere, whether it be shipping containers, underground bunkers, warehouses or rooftops.
Approaches
Vertical Farming. Growing crops in vertical layers under artificial light without soil in a climate-controlled environment. Two types are Hydroponics and Aquaponics.
Hydroponics. Is the system for growing plants in nutrient-rich water without using soil. Benefits include recycled water and minimal wastage of nutrients.
Aquaponics. Creation of a natural ecosystem between fish and plants. Fish waste becomes plant nutrition and in return, the vegetables clean the water which goes back to the fish.
Benefits
Faster and more sustainable supply chain
Sustainable food and help cities go green
Re-purposing of unused real estate
Promotes healthy lifestyles
Making fresh food more affordable
Allows “city people” to pursue their passion for agriculture
Risks
Environmental benefits can be questioned
Modest nutritional benefits
Risks of becoming a hobby for the urban elite
Environmental risks when designed badly
Overhype undermining the sector’s credibility
Urban Farms in London, UK
Conclusion
There is a lot of potential in urban farming. The key is correct implementation allowing for sustainable produce in city centres and reducing carbon emissions. Researching and explaining the benefits to investors & consumers will be key to helping grow awareness and for funds to flow into the sector, allowing for more research and development. Lastly, focus on combining profits with the social impact urban farming has to offer so that stakeholders can buy into the technology.
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