Technological Innovations in Agriculture (HL) (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

Technological Innovations in Agriculture

• Modern agriculture uses advanced greenhouse and vertical farming techniques

• These techniques:

  • Increase productivity

  • Meet the growing food demands of urban areas

High-tech greenhouses

• Controlled environment:

  • High-tech greenhouses are designed to maintain ideal growing conditions

    • Factors controlling these greenhouses include temperature, humidity, light, and CO₂ levels

  • Year-round crop growth is possible, ensuring consistent yields

• Hydroponic systems:

  • Many greenhouses use hydroponic systems for plant growth

    • Plants are grown in a nutrient-rich water solution instead of soil

  • Hydroponics can reduce water usage by up to 90% compared to traditional farming

    • This is because the water is recycled within the system

  • This method accelerates plant growth and increases yields

• Energy and climate considerations:

  • High-tech greenhouses can be energy-intensive

    • Heating, cooling, and lighting require significant energy

  • Some greenhouses are adopting renewable energy sources, such as solar and geothermal, to reduce environmental impact

Vertical farms

• Efficient use of space:

  • Vertical farms grow crops in stacked layers within indoor facilities

    • This maximises use of space

    • This is an advantage in densely populated urban areas

• Urban food production:

  • Vertical farms have the potential to enhance food security in urban environments

  • They can provide fresh produce to residents and reduce reliance on imports

  • Proximity to consumers reduces transportation costs and emissions

• Artificial lighting and climate control:

  • Vertical farms use LED lights for optimal photosynthesis

  • Artificial lighting ensures consistent growth conditions

  • Use systems to minimise water use and deliver nutrients precisely

    • Examples include:

      • Hydroponics: growing plants without soil, using mineral- and nutrient-rich water instead

      • Aeroponics: crops hang in the air with their roots exposed and a nutrient-rich mist waters the plants

Advantages and Disadvantages of Vertical Farms

Sustainability challenges

• High-tech greenhouses and vertical farms face sustainability challenges

  • They rely on artificial climate control and lighting, leading to high energy consumption

  • Much of this energy still comes from burning fossil fuels

• Researchers are exploring ways to improve efficiency

  • Solutions include integrating renewable energy sources and smarter technologies for managing resources such as heat, water and nutrients