Uncovering the Environmental Benefits of Vertical Farming: A Study on Lettuce Cultivation
A recent study conducted by the University of Surrey and the University of Aberdeen has provided new insights into the environmental viability of vertical farming, specifically in the cultivation of lettuce. The research utilized Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) using primary production data from a commercial vertical farm in the UK to compare the environmental impacts of vertical farming with traditional field-based methods. The findings suggest that vertical farming could offer a greener alternative to conventional agriculture, significantly reducing land use and climate change impacts.
Key Findings: Environmental Hotspots and Potential
The study identified electricity requirements and the cultivation substrate as the primary environmental hotspots within the vertical farming system. Nearly 40% of the climate change impact from the vertical lettuce farm was attributed to electricity consumption, highlighting the importance of the energy source used. The research found that using renewable energy to power vertical farms could reduce climate change impacts by six-fold, aligning the overall emissions profile with traditional field-based lettuce cultivation.
Another significant finding was the land use efficiency of vertical farming. The study revealed that vertical farming requires about 28 times less land than traditional farming methods. If the UK were to replace all its lettuce fields with vertical farms, it could save approximately 20,000 acres of land, which could be repurposed for other agricultural needs, offering a substantial environmental benefit.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
Despite the promising results, the study identified areas where vertical farming could be improved to further reduce its environmental impact. One major challenge highlighted was the environmental cost associated with the jute plugs used to grow lettuce seeds, accounting for 18% of the climate change impact and significant portions of water pollution and land use. To address these impacts, the researchers suggest exploring alternative materials such as coconut fiber, hemp, or perlite.
The study also noted that vertical farming systems could have a slightly higher environmental impact in categories like freshwater eutrophication potential and acidification potential compared to traditional farming. This suggests that while vertical farming offers significant benefits, there are environmental trade-offs that need to be considered.
A Path Forward for Sustainable Agriculture
Dr. Zoe Harris, Senior Lecturer in Environment and Sustainability at the University of Surrey, highlighted the potential of vertical farming to reduce agriculture’s climate impact, especially when powered by renewable energy. She stated, “Our findings show that vertical farms can help reduce the climate impact of farming, especially if their electricity comes from renewable sources.”
As global population growth, urbanization, and climate change continue to strain traditional food supply chains, vertical farming presents a promising alternative. The study’s findings indicate that with suitable energy sources and materials, vertical farming can be a viable and environmentally friendly option for producing fresh produce. However, further research and innovation are necessary to address current challenges and fully realize the potential of this emerging agricultural method.