greenhouses I shade net I hydroponics I aquaponics Inside a vertical hydroponics system.
Population explosion – nutritious food sustainability – water and energy shortages – mineral resources under pressure – eco systems failing:
vertical hydroponics farming the solution? In the major food producing countries globally, around 80% of water resources are applied for irrigation on farmland. An even higher percentage can be expected in drier areas where farmers are trying to produce a reasonable crop.
T
his is a cause for concern to the inhabitants of the world as, although they depend on producers to put food on the table, open land, or irrigated production systems calls for more water as it expands to supply in the fast increasing demand. Even if wastewater is used, harmful pathogens are introduced into the food supply and therefore put humans at risk. Further negative influences by irrigation practices is that it may cause waterlogging and salinization. When over-watering, the soil becomes oversaturated and plant roots get damaged, causing loss of plants. With salinization soil becomes saltier than it should be, as its water has been drawn away for irrigation elsewhere. The high salinity causes barren land because plants are unable to access what water remains in the soil. Pollution due to irrigation runoff can be a serious problem in the areas near commercial farming operations. Chemical pesticides and fertilizers are carried away from crops and into the local water supply, leading to health risks and posing a
12 Undercover farming I May/June 2021 I Volume 18 No 3
threat to natural waterways and the local environment.
Comes Vertical Farming There are several pros and cons to consider in the vertical farming idea. However; should one weigh up the negative aspects – which are largely due
to under-qualified management and poor business planning – this relatively new system should become the answer to multiplying nutritious food supplies quicker than conservative methods; even with its increased technologies.
System assistants should always wear protective clothing for hygienic purposes
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