How can vertical farming contribute to the future of agriculture?

Vertical farming refers to the practice of growing food on vertically inclined surfaces. It is often integrated into places such as warehouses, shipping containers and skyscrapers. Unlike single-level conventional farming, which requires a vast space for a large crop yield, vertical farming requires much less land as crops are grown in stacked layers that expand upward in tower-like structures. This also means that you can choose where to set up your farm more easily, from residential neighborhoods to commercial centers or anywhere your potential customers happen to be. This type of farming cuts down on costs and time for transport, as well as emissions.

Vertical farming is often practiced in a closed indoor environment where growing conditions such as temperature, humidity and lighting are monitored and optimized. Thanks to this, vertical farming requires 70-90% less water than conventional farming. It also has the advantage of year-round crop production, which is not likely to be affected by disruptive weather conditions such as droughts and flooding. Moreover, sealed indoor spaces prevent the risk of diseases and pests, minimizing the use of pesticides and herbicides on crops. With these advantages regarding food safety and the environment, vertical farming is considered one of the most viable solutions for sustainable urban agriculture.