Vertical farms - do they stack up?

About this episode

<p>This week on Over The Farm Gate we’re discussing vertical farms and finding out if they are really better for the planet? </p><p>Vertical farming - does all the hype stack up? Can these systems really save input costs? Do they offer viable diversification opportunities? Or will they always be the preserve of big-time farmers and investors? And of course, are they really better for the planet, and what contribution can they make to our food system? </p><p>To find out, Jez Fredenburgh talks to Sarah Hughes, a sheep and beef farmer in north Wales, who completed a Nuffield Scholarship on vertical farms in 2018, visiting some of the most advanced operations around the globe. Sarah set out to see if vertical farming offered a diversification opportunity for the ordinary farm business, she lets us in on her findings. </p><p>Jez then speaks to David Farquhar, CEO of Intelligent Growth Solutions, a multi-award-winning Scottish company which designs, supplies, and supports vertical farms for growers all around the world. Jez asks him - what really does it cost to set up a vertical farm, how do you operate them, and what are they like? </p><p>Links: </p><p>Read more about the use of vertical farming technology, but how can it complement conventional farming systems?</p><p><a rel='noreferrer noopener' target='_blank' href='https://www.fginsight.com/news/vertical-farming-taking-weather-out-of-the-equation-117612'>https://www.fginsight.com/news/vertical-farming-taking-weather-out-of-the-equation-117612</a></p><p>Read more about how, #FarmingCAN be a leader in tackling climate change: </p><p><a rel='noreferrer noopener' target='_blank' href='https://www.fginsight.com/farmingcan/farmingcan-help-tackle-climate-change/farmingcan-be-a-leader-in-tackling-climate-change-123608'>https://www.fginsight.com/farmingcan/farmingcan-help-tackle-climate-change/farmingcan-be-a-leader-in-tackling-climate-change-123608</a></p><p><a rel='noreferrer noopener' target='_blank' href='https://wistia.com/privacy'>https://wistia.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>