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Hydroponics: A Growing Solution for Sustainable Food Production in Solano County Hydroponics, the method of growing plants without soil, has become more than just a niche agricultural practice—it’s a key player in the future of sustainable food production. While hydroponics has been around for decades, it has surged in popularity in recent years, particularly with the legalization of marijuana. However, beyond this market, hydroponics is proving […] https://lnkd.in/eabZfnms

Introducing Our Latest Research on Sustainable Food Production Systems 🌱 Exciting Development in Sustainable Agriculture 🌱 We are delighted to share our new publication, "Towards a Zero-Waste Aquaponics-Centered Eco-Industrial Food Park," featured in the latest issue of Cleaner Production. This study explores the application of mathematical modeling and optimization to address a critical issue in waste-based farming systems like aquaponics: balancing nutrient supplies from aquaculture with fluctuating crop demands across seasons. A key advancement is our integration of a secondary anaerobic digestion process that processes external waste, providing the flexibility needed for a nearly waste-free and fully self-sustaining food production system. Key Insights Include: ◼ Implementation of a biobased circular economy framework. ◼ Comprehensive design and optimization of aquaponics-centered eco- industrial food parks. ◼ Development of strategies for seasonal adjustments to enhance nutrient self-sufficiency and minimize waste. ◼ Demonstrated potential for significant carbon footprint reductions when compared to conventional agricultural practices. This research not only broadens our understanding of sustainable practices but also highlights the potential for economically viable and environmentally sustainable food production solutions. 🔗 Gain deeper insights into how these pioneering approaches can transform the food industry. Access the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eSG47Fhm ⭐ Special thanks to Joris Bergman, Gerard Van Willigenburg, and Karel Keesman for their contributions.

  🌐 What does it take to achieve Net-Negative Carbon Food Production?? 👩🏫 👨🏫 People. Those with perseverance, competence, grit, curiosity and dedication!!   🚀 The members of the Foodworks e.V. team are those kind of people. For the last 3 years they have supported and developed their network and received grants to work on something transformational.   📔 Today Foodworks e.V., supported by the Authorities for Economics and Innovation in Hamburg, and conducted in partnership with leading vertical farming experts, GEA Group (a leading engineering company), Carboncycle, and SmartHoods, released an extensive analysis, from our recent study on "The Future Food Campus Hamburg” concept (FFC).   ♻ We conclude that CO2-negative food production is not only technologically feasible but economically viable. By integrating #cultivatedmeat, #precisionfermentation, #verticalfarming, and innovative waste-to-energy technologies we are paving the way for a more #regenerative future.   💼 Our report demonstrates that the FFC financial model is underlined by a strong business case, mitigating some of the biggest risks currently associated with vertical farming, cultivated meat, and precision fermentation whilst keeping within key #ESG parameters.   ⚒ These fundamental technological, commercial and environmental milestones boost our confidence to move towards the next stage of our plans. By working with industry leading technology providers, proven operators and engaged impact investors, we will change the way food is produced; equitable, climate positive and at scale.   📣 In the coming weeks, we will invite interested parties to join our initiative.    👇 For more insights on our analysis check out the study results here: https://lnkd.in/emf_X4gc     🙏🏼Thanks to the following people: Dr. John Lange, Florian Weischer, Torsten Gasser, Anna Krol, Regine Wolfgramm, and the team at GEA, as well as the Hamburg Ministry of Economics and Innovation, Peter Westerhoff from Carboncycle, Florijn de Graaf from Smarthoods, and our invaluable vertical farm advisors Jan Westra, Marinus Luiten, Dr. Jan-Gerd Frerichs, Sebastian Pook, and Nikolas Oetker, for their support. Special thanks also to Kay Pingel, A. M. (Andy) Zynga, Shadi Tawil, Nils Meier, Gabriele Mühlen M.A., MBA , Dr. Phanthian Zuesongdham, Prof. Phillip W. Goltermann, Thomas Herget, Meiny Prins, Marc Buckley 🌍, Ira van Eelen, Kathrin Haug, Lucas Hopgood, Dr. Matthias Hobbie, Moritz Zimmermann, Friedrich Rantzau, Wilfried Gillrath, Christine Zimmermann-Loessl, Joel Cuello, Lars Malter    🔗 Connect and Learn More Please contact Eva Keretic or visit our website   #FutureFoodCampusHamburg #innovateforchange #climatesolutions #Hamburg #CircularEconomy #NetZeroProduction #CO2Negative Interreg Baltic Sea Region #eufunds

🌟 Promoting Sustainability in Dairy Farming! 🌟 At Viking Dairy Company, we are committed to sustainability in every step of our supply chain. The U.S. dairy industry is making impressive strides in sustainable practices, including advanced manure management, renewable energy production, and water recycling. These initiatives not only benefit the environment but also support local communities and economies. As a leading raw dairy ingredient supplier, Viking Dairy Company ensures our products contribute to a more sustainable future. Read more about these practices and our commitment to sustainability here. #Sustainability #DairyIndustry #VikingDairy #EcoFriendly #SustainableFarming #DairyIngredients #FoodandBeverageIndustry

Enhancing Food Security Through Soil and Land Resource Management Food security is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. With a growing global population and the increasing impacts of climate change, the question is no longer just about producing more food—it’s about doing so sustainably. As someone with a BSc in Soil Science and Land Resources Management (Nigeria) and an MSc in Agriculture for Sustainable Development (UK), I’ve always been fascinated by how the health of our soil and land directly influences food production systems. Soil is not just a growing medium; it’s a living, breathing resource that sustains life on earth. The Critical Link Between Soil Health and Food Security Did you know that 95% of the food we consume comes from soil? And yet, millions of hectares of farmland are degraded annually due to unsustainable practices like overcultivation, deforestation, and excessive chemical use. This is where Soil and Land Resource Management plays a pivotal role in reversing the trend and safeguarding our future. Here’s how: 1️⃣ Regenerative Farming Practices Techniques like crop rotation, organic amendments, and conservation tillage not only replenish soil nutrients but also boost biodiversity and resilience. These practices ensure that the same land can produce food year after year without exhaustion. 2️⃣ Water-Efficient Land Use Proper land management can reduce runoff, improve water infiltration, and maximize irrigation efficiency. These strategies are essential in regions facing water scarcity, ensuring that every drop of water contributes to food production. 3️⃣ Sustainable Fertilizer Use Integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) focuses on using fertilizers judiciously while incorporating organic matter and microbial solutions. This approach enhances nutrient availability while minimizing environmental impact. 4️⃣ Erosion Control Every year, soil erosion wipes away fertile land, undermining agricultural productivity. Strategies such as contour farming, terracing, and cover crops can prevent this, preserving the land for future generations. A Call to Action for Collaboration To achieve food security, we need more than just awareness—we need action. Soil scientists, policymakers, agronomists, and farmers must collaborate to design and implement systems that respect and restore our natural resources. This collective effort is essential for creating a world where everyone has access to nutritious food. 🌱 How can we better integrate soil management practices into global food systems? Share your insights in the comments below. Let’s start a conversation about building a more food-secure future together. #SoilSustainability #FoodSecurity #LandManagement #SustainableAgriculture #EnvironmentalSustainability

Hydroponics: A Growing Solution for Sustainable Food Production in Solano County Hydroponics, the method of growing plants without soil, has become more than just a niche agricultural practice—it’s a key player in the future of sustainable food production. While hydroponics has been around for decades, it has surged in popularity in recent years, particularly with the legalization of marijuana. However, beyond this market, hydroponics is proving essential for growing food as well. Rising food costs, the strain on natural resources, and the need for year-round production have made this method indispensable for farmers in areas like California’s Solano County. In Dixon, Solano County, Gotham Greens operates one of its 13 state-of-the-art greenhouses, showcasing just how advanced hydroponic farming has become. According to Nick Bellizzi, who oversees operations at the facility, the greenhouse is equipped with sensors that monitor crucial environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, and light intensity. This technological sophistication allows farmers to adjust conditions in real time, optimizing plant growth throughout the year. “The ability to control the environment means we can grow 365 days a year,” Bellizzi explained during a tour of the facility. Thi...

FMC Corporation and UN Global Compact Network USA Convene Global Leaders to Discuss Future of Sustainable Food Systems During United Nations General Assembly FMC Corporation (NYSE: FMC), a leading global agricultural sciences company, together with the UN Global Compact Network (UNGC) USA, convened global public and private sector leaders for a roundtable discussion on the future of sustainable food systems. The roundtable, “Sustainable Food Systems: Paving the Way for a Greener Future,” was held during UNGC’s flagship event on the contributions of the U.S. private sector to advancing the 2030 agenda on sustainable development. The roundtable highlighted the importance of collaboration and shared goals in addressing global challenges like climate change, food security and resource conservation. Participants, including leaders from across the food and agriculture industry, shared their perspectives and insights on emerging technologies, policies and practices that are reshaping sustainable agriculture and contributing to more resilient supply chains. Julie DiNatale, FMC’s chief sustainability officer, discussed the company’s commitment to accelerating innovation that supports sustainable farming practices and helps farmers build resilience to climate impacts. This includes modern chemistries, biologicals and precision agriculture technologies that benefit both farmers and the environment. “Food systems transformation hinges on investments in new tools and technologies that help farmers address their biggest challenges,” said DiNatale. “Innovation is essential to meeting food security needs while reducing agriculture’s impact on the environment. However, partnership and collaboration across the food value chain is equally important to delivering solutions that empower farmers and drive sustainable change. The roundtable was a fantastic opportunity to connect companies and stakeholders to discuss what we can do together to support farmers in their efforts to produce more with less.” “We are privileged to bring together our UN Global Compact Network USA participants to drive these critical conversations that move us closer to sustainable solutions,” said Richard Pearl, UN Global Compact Network USA acting executive director. “Events like SDG Summit USA are vital for addressing the challenges we face and finding actionable paths forward. We’re especially grateful to FMC, a long-standing signatory to the UN Global Compact, for their continued leadership and support of this event.” Read more: https://lnkd.in/djzbBZXx

Evergreen Labs is thrilled to share the results of our recent case study with CAS Farm, a valued partner in our social venture, HealthyFarm! This study explored innovative ways to create a sustainable feed system for free-range chickens, focusing on two key elements: 🪲 Black Soldier Fly Larvae: This alternative protein source reduces reliance on traditional feed ingredients and minimizes environmental impact. 🔆 Solar-Powered Farms: Utilizing solar panels for energy needs fosters a more sustainable and cost-effective farming model. The results are encouraging! The study demonstrates the feasibility and positive impact of using black soldier fly larvae and solar power for free-range chicken production, where we can have healthier chickens, reduce our environmental footprint, and promote more sustainable farming! Read our full case study here! https://lnkd.in/gmNkV9EH #EvergreenLabs #HealthyFarm #CASFarm #Sustainability #FreeRangeChickens #BlackSoldierFlyLarvae #SolarPower #FoodSystems

Revolutionizing Local Food Production: How a Swedish Greenhouse Yields 30,000 Cucumbers Weekly In Haninge, just outside Ica Maxi, a highly efficient and sustainable greenhouse is making waves in agriculture. Built and operated by food tech company Agtira, the facility produces a staggering 30,000 cucumbers each week—amounting to 500 tons annually. This new greenhouse stands as a testament to modern farming methods aimed at revolutionizing how we grow and distribute food. At the heart of this endeavor is a commitment to reducing food miles and waste. According to Berit Fryklund, communications director at Agtira, transporting cucumbers from southern Europe, such as Spain, to northern Sweden is inefficient and environmentally damaging. Transporting a water-rich fruit like cucumbers over long distances simply doesn’t make sense, given that they contain 95% water. With the Ica Maxi greenhouse, these issues are eliminated, as the cucumbers are harvested fresh every day, just 100 meters from where they will be sold. Advanced Greenhouse Technology The 3,000-square-meter greenhouse is a hub of high-tech innovation, featuring over 7,000 cucumber plants carefully monitored and maintained in a controlled environment. Before entering, everyone must disinfect themselves and don protec...

Water plays an essential role at Heineken. After all, without water, there is no beer! Because of this, healthy and sustainable watersheds have been on our agenda for decades, so we take a holistic approach that looks beyond the walls of our breweries and puts the health of local watersheds front and center. Last year, we initiated a comprehensive Water Global Screening focused on our top suppliers and primary sourcing areas. Next, we plan to involve an assessment, following the guidance provided by the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN). This initiative marks the first phase of our Water in Agriculture program, which will guide us through addressing water quantity and quality alongside our existing sustainable agriculture programs. #HealthyWatersheds #WaterGlobalScreening #Sustainability