World’s largest vertical farm-The Dubai World Central complex has become home to the world’s largest hydroponic farm, it was announced on Monday.
Dubai Flight Catering and Crop One, a technology-driven indoor vertical farming pioneer, have partnered to create the Bustanica farm, which will be the first vertical farm for Emirates Crop One.
Using only 95 percent less water than conventional agriculture, the 330,000 sq.ft facility can produce more than 1 million kg of high-quality leafy greens each year. The facility can grow over 1 million cultivars (plants) at any one time, which will produce 3,000 kg of produce per day.
In order to maximize water usage and efficiency, the farm’s closed-loop system circulates water through the plants. For the same amount of output, 250m liters of water are saved by recovering and recycling the vapors when they evaporate.
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World’s largest vertical farm-In order for any country to grow economically, food security and self-sufficiency are essential. Because of the climate and land limitations in our region, we face specific challenges. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, said, “Bustanica ushers in a new era of innovation and investments, which are important steps for sustained growth.
A highly specialised in-house team of agronomy experts, engineers, horticulturists, and plant scientists drives Bustanica’s technology – machine learning, artificial intelligence, and advanced methods.
It will soon be possible to buy produce from the farm on Emirates flights and in supermarkets.
In an announcement, Crop One CEO Craig Ratajczyk said, “After significant planning and construction, and navigating the unforeseen challenges of the pandemic, we’re thrilled to reach this great milestone.”
The first large format farm is a testament to our commitment to cultivate a sustainable future that meets the global demand for fresh, local food. This facility serves as a model for what’s possible around the world.”