Advancing vertical farming with automation for sustainable food production

Abstract

The increasing global population, combined with the impacts of climate change, underscores the urgent need for novel food production systems. Conventional field-based agriculture strains planetary boundaries. Vertical farming (VF) emerges as a promising alternative. It enables precise manipulation of growth factors, including light, temperature, humidity, and nutrient delivery, leading to higher yields and superior crop quality while reducing the environmental impact. Automation and robotics will enhance efficiency, while hydroponic techniques minimize fertilizer usage. Collaborative efforts are essential to address challenges such as energy consumption and technology costs to fully realize the potential of VF. Vertical farming aligns with many of the Global Sustainability Goals, offering a pathway towards food security challenges while fostering sustainability.