Hydroponics and Local Food Systems
One of the greatest challenges in creating local food systems is shifting from relying on the global food system and its far-travelling cheap food imports. Our global food system is an unsustainable means of producing food which harms the environment through a cycle of depletion and degradation. By focusing on local food production, we can improve local economies while reducing their environmental impact. We should be creating food at the source of demand. As most of the world's population lives in cities, this means that truly local food systems should be in urban areas. While these areas have significant limitations in space, it's necessary to adopt technologies that can fit into existing buildings and make the most out of less space. This is where using hydroponics to grow food in cities becomes beneficial.
Local and Circular Food Systems
Hydroponics is an important part of creating local and sustainable food systems. We often hear about the advantages of hydroponics for growing food (see Hydroponics 101), but it also has a significant role to play in building resilience in our communities. By ensuring food security, hydroponics can contribute to a more self-reliant and sustainable future.
Hydroponics and Circular Food Systems
While it's essential to prioritize localized food systems, it's also crucial for these systems to operate in a closed-loop, circular manner. By aligning with natural processes, we can tap into the regenerative systems found in nature. Circular systems ensure that the energy and nutrients produced from local food production remain within the community they serve. This includes efficiently recycling nutrients, minimizing waste, and reusing all components in a biodiverse and locally-focused way. Hydroponics, and its resource efficiency, can meet all of these requirements and beyond. The technology also allows for a reduced dependency on harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides, which can disrupt natural process in circular food systems depend. Embracing hydroponics and its use in a circular food system improves sustainability but also fosters resilience within the community, creating a stronger and more self-sufficient food system.