The farming sector globally is feeling the squeeze as pressure is increasing on traditional agricultural methods which farmers have come to know inside and out. With this shortage of fertile land and water becoming more apparent, we look at how the growing technology trends may positively affect the vertical farming systems in South Africa. The use of renewable energy sources and implementation of technological improvements in the farming world is growing in popularity and may soon be the norm for local farmers. With these methods growing so rapidly, the vertical farming sector is off to a promising start with agricultural gurus taking interest in moving this method away from specialized crops and more into staple crops which are used globally. In this article we discuss just how the advancements of technology may influence the farming sector.
“Contrary to traditional (horizontal) farming, vertical farming is the agriculture of food in vertically stacked layers – often small-spaced urban areas. Well-designed vertical farming systems use less land, produce fewer greenhouse gases, use fewer resources, and protect our air, land, and waters.”
What is a Vertical Farming System?
Vertical Faming Systems follows an advanced structure designed to grow crops in vertically stacked layers within controlled indoor environments. These farms integrate hydroponics, aeroponics and advanced lighting systems to allow plants to thrive without soil, but rather with nutrient-rich water and precise doses of light. This innovative method of cultivation reduces the need for pesticides, minimizes water usage and eliminates risk of soil rot and degradation. Vertical farming also allows farmers to closely monitor and maximise the environmental conditions to ensure optimal growth and high crop yields.
Currently, vertical farming is only used with smaller crops such as leafy greens and herbs. In order to expand this method into being a common practice, farming businesses will need to collaborate and innovate with technological moguls, biologists and crop experts to deliver a solution which lowers costs, reduces risks and raises yields. In order to overcome the challenges of traditional agriculture, Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) will need to be investigated by government and non-government entities in order to grow both the knowledge and adoption of vertical farming systems.
Mitigation Constraints:
South Africa, much like many African countries faces the challenges which come from climate changes namely unpredictable weather patterns. Vertical farming offers relief from these challenges through the monitoring of external climatic conditions allowing for harvesting of crops year round and not at the mercy of mother nature. With this promising resilience at the forefront of vertical farming, food security and farmer livelihood also stand to benefit.
Benefits of Vertical Farming:
- Land Use
- Space efficient farming. This method of farming offers small space, environmentally friendly farming practices as well as the new idea of vertical land use
- Water Use
- Drying up water sources is a huge problem which is beginning to show its face in South Africa .With water quality and supply being called into question, this water efficient method of farming could become more common in arid areas/.
- Energy Use
- This method of farming presents primes opportunity for renewable energy to be installed and used. This renewable energy could be subsidized by the government depending on the area of Sub-Saharan Africa in which the farm is operated. With energy resources not being at the forefront of farmers’ minds, more focus can be placed on the two important results of farming, productivity and profit.
- Pollution and Eco-System Degradation
- Reduced release of gases into the atmosphere through strong fertilizers and pesticides will be seen through the implementation of this vertical farming system. However, more attention will have to be applied when managing ecosystems in and amongst the crops.
- Supply Chains
- With focus being placed on a decentralised food production system, a simpler and less complex logistics system could be introduced offering more foods to local areas and encouraging more vertical farms to be set up to supply their immediate local network.
Promoting Sustainable Urban Development:
Beyond the agricultural benefits of a vertical farming system, there are other advantages for the urban landscape. By integrating vertical farms into city planes, South Africa can embrace a more sustainable future. These farms can serve as educational centres promiting awareness and understanding of sustainable agriculture. This in turn also contributes to green job creation, employment opportunities and young mind fostering all ultimately supporting economic growth.
Furthermore, with a farm system being closer to their consumers, farmers can come to grips with reducing food waste as produce can be harvested and delivered fresh within a shorter period. Locally grown crops also reduces the need for transport and fossil fuelled logistics resulting in a more environmentally conscious society.
In essence, we note that the advancements in technology and the adoption of vertical farming present a promising solution to the challenges faced by conventional agriculture. Vertical farming offers a range of promising benefits and efficient practices to take full advantages of what is on offer. By making use of adequate CEA’s, cultivation techniques, new technological improvements and renewable energy integration farmers are offered the opportunity to optimise their crop growth and minimise the usual farming challenges. Furthermore, vertical farming systems contribute to sustainable urban development by promoting awareness of employment, sustainability and economic growth respectively. By embracing this transformative approach to agriculture and maintaining an open mindset to this new method of farming, South Africa and investors have the opportunity to pave the way for a more resilient, efficient and sustainable food system.
InterGest South Africa works with a wide range of clients and investors who wish to seize the potential lying in the South African agricultural market. With our extensive business service offerings of tax advisory, employer of record, payroll and public officers and more, we strive to do all the market entry administration while you seize the gaps in the market.
For more information on InterGest South Africa and our investment guide, check out our website here.
SOURCES:
https://impactful.ninja/vertical-vs-traditional-farming-differences/
https://www.frost.com/news/press-releases/advancements-in-technology-lead-the-vertical-farming-sector-toward-prosperity/
