Unlocking the full potential of vertical farming

The best basil used to thrive in the warm and sunny climate of the Mediterranean coast. But vertical farming enables its cultivation (and that of other crops) anywhere in the world, recreating the original growing conditions. This technology has revolutionised the agriculture industry and offers benefits traditional farming cannot. Let’s explore what vertical farming is, its advantages, relevance in terms of sustainability, and how suitable power transmission solutions can maximise its potential.

What is vertical farming?

Vertical farming is an innovative agricultural technique that involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers in an indoor environment. This method has taken the world by storm because it allows more efficient use of space and resources. It eliminates the need for harmful pesticides and herbicides at the same time increasing the yield and quality of the crops.

Vertical farming involves using specialised equipment and technology, including hydroponics, aquaponics, aeroponics, and artificial lighting, to provide the ideal growing environment for plants. The technology addresses the challenges of population growth while reducing the impact of agriculture on the environment.

How does vertical farming differ from conventional agriculture?

The major difference between traditional farming and vertical one is that the former involves growing crops outdoors in open fields with natural sunlight and irrigation. The harvest is subject to various environmental factors such as weather, pests, and diseases. On the other hand, vertical farming means growing crops in a controlled environment indoors in stacked layers, where temperature, humidity, and light can be carefully regulated. This method relies on artificial growing systems and does not require soil.

What are the advantages of vertical farming?

Vertical farming has many advantages over conventional agriculture. The crops produced traditionally are subject to geographic location and seasonal changes while vertical farming allows growing plants indoors all year round in nearly every region of the world. All you need is a greenhouse or any other controlled environment - no matter if it’s located in a parking lot, shipping container, or desert. As a result, consumers (especially those living in urban areas) have easier access to fresh products.

But vertical farming also means efficient use of space as it allows plants to be stacked on top of each other. According to dr James Altland, a research horticulturist at the Application Technology Research Unit in Wooster, OH, for some crops, it is possible to achieve even 10 to 20 times higher yields per acre compared to open field cultivation.

Another advantage is that vertical farming is resistant to extreme and adverse weather conditions. The whole production is kept indoors, so the climate and weather factors cease to be a problem.

The production is also safer for customers. Vertical farmers don’t need chemical pesticides to grow produce so the plants are less likely to be contaminated by pathogens harmful to humans and at the same time provide excellent taste and nutritious value.

Is vertical farming sustainable?

Vertical farming is more sustainable than traditional farming because it requires less water to grow crops. The technology uses sophisticated irrigation systems that recirculate water and minimise waste. According to the Columbia University Earth Institute, vertical farms require 70% to 95% less water than traditional cultivation.

Additionally, as vertical farming can be carried out in urban areas, bringing fresh produce to consumers reduces transportation costs and environmental impact. A shorter supply chain lowers greenhouse gas emissions, including CO2.

Vertical farming and automation

Vertical farms and automation are two concepts that go hand in hand. Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) are used to maximise the use of available space. The system consists of a series of automated machines that can move vertically and horizontally retrieving and storing trays of crops. It relies on advanced software to manage inventory. ASRS reduce labour costs, increase efficiency and improve overall yields. They require reliable power transmission solutions to operate effectively. Robust belts are essential to move plants and other resources throughout the farm with smoothness and precision.

Vertical farm

How can MEGALINEAR MegaEco Biobased boost vertical farming?

MEGALINEAR MegaEco Biobased is the latest Megadyne innovation designed to unleash the full potential of vertical farming systems and make them even more sustainable.

MEGALINEAR MegaEco Biobased is a timing belt made with a polymer derived partially from vegetable sources and its production lowers CO2 emissions. While being an eco-friendly and impact-reducing alternative to standard belt solutions, MEGALINEAR MegaEco Biobased doesn’t compromise the quality of performance – the tooth strength and cord-breaking load remain intact. The line is available in the most common pitches (T5/T10, AT5/ AT10) making it fully interchangeable with standard belts available in the market. You can join the belts together to design a conveying solution of any length needed.

The green colour of MEGALINEAR MegaEco Biobased makes it easier to identify and track any maintenance and performance issues. It’s also more aesthetically pleasing. The colour of the belt perfectly blends with the greenery of the vertical farms, creating a more visually appealing environment.

Contact us!

Vertical farming is a promising solution to the challenges facing traditional agriculture. It has the potential to revolutionise the way we produce food making it more sustainable. As leaders in power transmission solutions, we facilitate and support such initiatives with top-notch products. If you’re interested in how our company can support your vertical farming needs with innovative advancements, contact us. We’re ready to help you achieve your goals.