This page is a compilation of blog sections we have around this keyword. Each header is linked to the original blog. Each link in Italic is a link to another keyword. Since our content corner has now more than 4,500,000 articles, readers were asking for a feature that allows them to read/discover blogs that revolve around certain keywords.
The keyword vertical farming towers has 2 sections. Narrow your search by selecting any of the keywords below:
- circular economy (3)
- circular economy principles (2)
- urban farming (2)
- resource efficiency (2)
- leafy greens (2)
- carbon footprint (2)
- conservation easements (2)
- smart cities (2)
- salt approach (2)
- yolŋu people (2)
1.A Winning Combination:Case Studies: Successful Urban Farming Businesses Embracing the Circular Economy[Original Blog]
1. The Farmery: Revolutionizing Urban Farming with circular Economy principles
The Farmery is an innovative urban farming business that has embraced the circular economy model to create a sustainable and profitable operation. Founded by Ben Greene in 2012, The Farmery combines aquaponics, vertical farming, and retailing in a unique and integrated system.
One of the key aspects of The Farmery's circular economy approach is its use of waste streams to create a closed-loop system. The business sources organic waste from local restaurants and grocery stores, which is then used as nutrient-rich feed for the fish in their aquaponics system. The fish waste, in turn, fertilizes the plants grown in vertical farming towers. This closed-loop system minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency, leading to a more sustainable and cost-effective operation.
In addition to waste utilization, The Farmery also embraces the circular economy by optimizing the use of space in urban areas. By utilizing vertical farming techniques and converting shipping containers into growing spaces, The Farmery maximizes the productivity of limited urban land. This allows them to grow a wide variety of crops, including leafy greens, herbs, and even strawberries, in a relatively small footprint. The Farmery's focus on space efficiency not only contributes to the circular economy but also helps alleviate some of the challenges associated with urban farming.
2. Gotham Greens: creating a Circular economy in the Heart of the City
Gotham Greens is another prime example of a successful urban farming business that has fully embraced the circular economy principles. With multiple rooftop greenhouse facilities across cities like New York, Chicago, and Denver, Gotham Greens is redefining the way fresh produce is grown, distributed, and consumed.
One of the key components of Gotham Greens' circular economy approach is its commitment to renewable energy. The company's rooftop greenhouses are powered by a combination of solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels. By generating clean energy on-site, Gotham Greens minimizes its carbon footprint and contributes to a more sustainable urban farming model.
Moreover, Gotham Greens has implemented a closed-loop irrigation system that recirculates water and nutrients within their greenhouses. This system reduces water waste and eliminates the need for synthetic fertilizers, further enhancing the circular economy principles at play. As a result, Gotham Greens can grow high-quality, pesticide-free produce year-round, while significantly reducing their environmental impact.
3. Growing Underground: Transforming Disused Spaces into Productive Farms
Growing Underground is a London-based urban farming business that has found a unique way to embrace the circular economy by repurposing disused underground tunnels. Located beneath the city, these tunnels were originally built as air-raid shelters during World War II. Today, Growing Underground utilizes this hidden space to grow a variety of crops using hydroponic systems.
By utilizing these forgotten spaces, Growing Underground not only contributes to the circular economy but also addresses the issue of land scarcity in urban areas. The company's hydroponic growing systems require minimal soil and use up to 70% less water compared to traditional farming methods. This efficient use of resources allows Growing Underground to produce fresh and sustainable crops year-round, without relying on external land or weather conditions.
Additionally, Growing Underground's proximity to urban markets reduces transportation distances, further minimizing their carbon footprint. This direct-to-market approach ensures that their produce reaches consumers at its freshest, while also supporting local food systems and reducing food miles.
In conclusion, these case studies highlight the success of urban farming businesses that have fully embraced the circular economy model. By implementing innovative techniques, utilizing waste streams, optimizing space, and reducing environmental impacts, these businesses are paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient urban food system. As cities continue to grow and face challenges related to food security and resource scarcity, embracing the circular economy principles in urban farming becomes increasingly crucial.
A Winning Combination:Case Studies: Successful Urban Farming Businesses Embracing the Circular Economy - Urban Farming Businesses and the Circular Economy: A Winning Combination
2.Successful Land Innovation Projects[Original Blog]
## 1. Urban Redevelopment: The High Line, New York City
The High Line is a prime example of transforming disused infrastructure into a vibrant public space. Built on an abandoned elevated railway track in Manhattan, New York City, this linear park has become an iconic urban oasis. Insights from different perspectives:
- Architectural Innovation: The design team creatively integrated greenery, seating areas, and art installations along the elevated pathway. The result is a harmonious blend of nature and urbanity.
- Community Engagement: Local residents, artists, and businesses actively participated in shaping the High Line's identity. Their input ensured that the space met diverse needs.
- Economic Impact: Property values in the surrounding neighborhoods skyrocketed, attracting investment and revitalizing the area.
## 2. Agroforestry: The SALT Approach in Niger
In the arid regions of Niger, the Sahel region, the Sustainable Agroforestry Land Technology (SALT) approach has transformed barren land into productive ecosystems. Key insights:
- Tree Planting: By strategically planting drought-resistant trees alongside crops, farmers prevent soil erosion, enhance water retention, and improve soil fertility.
- Crop Diversity: Integrating crops like millet, sorghum, and legumes with fruit-bearing trees ensures food security and income diversification.
- Community Empowerment: Local communities actively participate in decision-making, ensuring the sustainability of the SALT approach.
## 3. Conservation Easements: The Teton Valley Story
In Teton Valley, Idaho, conservation easements have preserved critical wildlife habitats and scenic landscapes. Perspectives:
- Private Landowners: By voluntarily restricting development rights, landowners protect open spaces, wildlife corridors, and water resources.
- Collaboration: Nonprofits, government agencies, and land trusts work together to negotiate and fund conservation easements.
- Tourism and Recreation: The preserved land attracts ecotourists, hikers, and birdwatchers, benefiting the local economy.
## 4. Smart Cities: Singapore's Vertical Farms
Singapore, with limited land area, has embraced vertical farming to enhance food security. Notable aspects:
- Vertical Farming Towers: Skyscrapers house hydroponic and aeroponic farms, producing leafy greens, herbs, and even fish.
- Resource Efficiency: Reduced water usage, minimized transportation, and year-round production contribute to sustainability.
- Urban Aesthetics: These green towers add beauty to the cityscape while addressing food scarcity.
## 5. Indigenous Land Management: The Yolŋu People of Australia
The Yolŋu people in Arnhem Land, Australia, practice caring for country—a holistic approach to land stewardship. Insights:
- Traditional Knowledge: Yolŋu elders pass down ecological wisdom, including fire management, species protection, and sustainable hunting.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Their practices maintain biodiversity, benefiting both humans and wildlife.
- Cultural Connection: Land is inseparable from Yolŋu culture, reinforcing their identity and resilience.
These case studies highlight the power of land innovation to create positive change. Whether through urban renewal, agroforestry, conservation, smart cities, or indigenous wisdom, investing in land can yield remarkable results. Remember, every plot of land holds immense potential—it's up to us to unlock it!