Integration of aquaponics aystem with water reuse for housing in hot arid climate: BaityKool(BK), a bio-inspired dwelling prototype in Dubai-UAE

Abstract

In urban areas, there is little space available for vegetation but a potential for food production that merits to be exploited. aquaponics is a coupled system of two technologies of fish farming and soil-less vegetation, a scheme primarily proposed for hot arid regions with limited agricultural land resource availability for sustainable water reuse and food production operation. This research will include the aquaponics system as a provision of food for all occupants of a house in the most environmentally friendly manner possible. In comparison to standard vegetable production, the employment of this form of the aquaponic system results in effective water savings of up to 90% while producing part of the vegetables for salads for the residents of the BaityKool house. This paper presents the technological design of an aquaponic system as well as its architectural integration into a habitat in Dubai-UAE.