Now that aeroponics is emerging as a viable and highly efficient method of commercial eco farming, AeroFarms is planning to open what will be the largest vertical farm in the world. This facility will be located in Newark, New Jersey, taking up residence in what used to be an old steel factory.
The 69,000 square foot building is set to grow non-GMO leafy green vegetables in stacking trays—a system that is reportedly 75 times more productive per square foot yearly than traditional farming in the fields and 10 times more productive than hydroponic farming. By doing away with soil and sunlight with aeroponics, AeroFarms is hoping to make healthy, locally grown foods much more accessible to nearby communities.
Vertical Farming Facilities
AeroFarms' Vertical Eco Farming Building Will Be the World's Largest
Trend Themes
1. Vertical Farming - Develop new methods and technologies for building large-scale vertical farming facilities to increase food productivity and accessibility in urban areas.
2. Aeroponics Farming - Investigate and develop more efficient and eco-friendly methods of using aeroponics to grow crops that require less water and space compared to traditional agriculture.
3. Alternative Farming Techniques - Explore alternative farming techniques such as aeroponics and hydroponics to help reduce environmental impact and increase productivity while improving crop yields.
Industry Implications
1. Agriculture - Incorporate new methods and technologies such as aeroponics and vertical farming to improve productivity and sustainability while meeting increasing food demand.
2. Food Production and Distribution - Invest in vertical farming as a way to produce healthy, fresh, and accessible produce for local communities while also reducing transportation and distribution costs.
3. Real Estate - Repurpose old factories and unused urban spaces to create large-scale vertical farming facilities, which offer a new and innovative use for aging infrastructure.