UAE pioneers vertical farming with 90% water savings and chemical-free crops

In a land typically defined by its vast desert landscapes, a revolution in agriculture is unfurling behind glass walls and under bright artificial lights. The UAE is witnessing the rise of vertical farming, an innovative approach to food production that shifts away from traditional methods to embrace technology and sustainability. This agricultural transformation is not just about growing food; it’s about cultivating a greener future in a challenging environment where water scarcity and climate change are pressing concerns.

Vertical farms, once relegated to the realm of futuristic speculation, are now a tangible part of the UAE’s urban landscape, appearing in malls, hotels, and other public spaces. With companies like UNS Vertical Farms and Pure Harvest Smart Farms at the forefront, the narrative surrounding food production in the Emirates is evolving. “In the UAE, it’s not just about adapting; it’s about innovating,” one spokesperson remarked, highlighting that food can thrive through technological advancements rather than solely in soil.

Among the notable statistics reshaping perceptions is the staggering 90% reduction in water usage attributed to vertical farming practices. Mehlam Murtaza, Executive Director at UNS Vertical Farms, explains, “Our closed-loop hydroponic system recycles water effectively, ensuring that every drop counts. We provide precisely what the plants need, leading to high yields without the waste.” This method of farming not only conserves water but also eliminates reliance on pesticides, a factor celebrated by both UNS and Pure Harvest, whose operations reflect a commitment to sustainability rather than merely a marketing strategy.

Speaking to the innovative practices in these facilities, Sky Kurtz, CEO of Pure Harvest Smart Farms, described the company’s rigorous approach to pest management—integrating beneficial insects rather than resorting to chemicals. This aligns with a broader movement towards chemical-free agriculture, which reassures consumers that “chemical-free” doesn’t imply compromised safety but rather superior quality and health standards. Both UNS and Pure Harvest have garnered international certifications, reinforcing their commitment to delivering safe and sustainable products to consumers.

The concept of farming within public spaces has sparked intrigue and dialogue; as Murtaza states, “Bringing vertical farms into accessible locations changes the narrative. It’s about visibility and making agriculture a part of everyday life.” This dialogue extends beyond mere aesthetics. It’s about actively engaging consumers and fostering a connection between them and their food sources. Pure Harvest has adopted transparency as a cornerstone of its brand, utilising QR codes on packaging to detail the journey of each product from farm to fork, fostering trust among increasingly conscious consumers.

Indeed, a shift is underway among UAE consumers, predominantly led by millennials and Gen Z. As these demographics demand more transparency and ethical sourcing, they express a willingness to invest in food that not only nourishes them but also benefits the planet. Kurtz articulates this evolving mindset succinctly: “There is a real hunger for climate-conscious, zero-mile produce. We’re not just selling food; we’re offering trust.”

Underlying these advancements is the application of cutting-edge technology. Both UNS and Pure Harvest employ Internet of Things (IoT) systems and automation to fine-tune every aspect of the farming process, ensuring year-round consistency regardless of external conditions. “Automation helps us achieve perfect crops every single day, diminishing human error,” Kurtz adds, revealing how these smart systems facilitate unprecedented efficiencies in food production.

On a national level, the UAE government recognises controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) as a vital part of its strategy to enhance food security and reduce dependency on imports. Recent developments, such as the opening of Bustanica, the world’s largest hydroponic farm located in Dubai, epitomise this strategic vision. Spanning 330,000 square feet, Bustanica utilises advanced technologies to produce over a million kilograms of leafy greens annually while using 95% less water. This landmark venture is a joint effort between Emirates Flight Catering and Crop One Holdings, designed to promote sustainability in a region where traditional farming methods face significant hurdles.

As urban populations rise and natural resources dwindle, the urgency of scaling vertical farming becomes evident. The UAE’s foray into this realm isn’t merely experimental—it’s part of a larger strategy to fortify food production against environmental challenges. With companies like UNS and Pure Harvest leading the way, the focus is not just on immediate outputs but on cultivating resilience, enhancing diversity, and bridging the gap between consumers and sustainable food practices.

In the face of change, it is essential to remember the human element driving this agricultural renaissance. It embodies a reconnection with food and a commitment to nurturing both urban lifestyles and natural ecosystems. So, the next time you savour a crisp salad sourced locally in the UAE, consider that it may have been grown in a technology-driven vertical farm, untouched by soil or chemicals, yet profoundly rooted in the region’s quest for sustainability.

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Source: Noah Wire Services