ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF USING AN INDUSTRIAL HYDROPONIC MULTI-TIER SYSTEM

Аннотация

INTRODUCTION systems have proven to be particularly Hydroponics, a method of growing plants without advantageous in urban environments where soil using mineral nutrient solutions, has space is limited and demand for fresh produce is attracted attention due to its potential to high [2]. The use of solar energy in hydroponics revolutionize agricultural productivity. In has also become a key element, aligning with multilevel systems, hydroponics becomes even sustainable energy initiatives and reducing more efficient, maximizing space utilization and operating costs [3]. increasing crop yields (Figure 1) [1]. These https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajmei 23 THE USA JOURNALS THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMICS INNOVATIONS (ISSN- 2693-0811) VOLUME 06 ISSUE06 Figure 1 - Multilevel hydroponics systems high-quality produce locally, reducing The relevance of hydroponics in modern transportation costs and minimizing food waste agriculture must be considered. As the world's [5]. population continues to grow to 8.108 billion in May 2024, food security is becoming a pressing In addition, the integration of solar energy into issue. Land availability, water scarcity, and hydroponic systems increases their economic environmental degradation often challenge viability. Solar-powered hydroponics reduces traditional farming methods. Hydroponic systems dependence on conventional energy sources, offer a solution to these problems by using less lowers operating costs, and contributes to water and land and minimizing environmental sustainable development goals [3]. This approach impact [2]. Economic benefits are associated with is in line with global renewable energy trends, increased crop yields, reduced labor costs, and the making hydroponics a forward-thinking ability to grow crops year-round, regardless of investment. external weather conditions [4]. THEORETICAL PART Multilevel hydroponic systems have proven to be Hydroponics is an innovative method of farming a viable approach to meet the growing needs of and offers an alternative to traditional soil-based urban populations. These systems make efficient farming. Nutrient-rich aqueous solutions are used use of vertical space, allowing different crops to to grow plants, providing a sustainable and be grown in compact areas. This design is efficient approach to food production. This particularly advantageous in urban areas where concept has expanded significantly in industrial space is limited and traditional agriculture is not applications, especially in multi-level systems that feasible [1]. The economic benefits of such maximize space and productivity. systems are evident in their ability to produce https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajmei 24 THE USA JOURNALS THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMICS INNOVATIONS (ISSN- 2693-0811) VOLUME 06 ISSUE06 The basic idea behind hydroponics is to eliminate culture, aeroponics, etc. (Figure 2). Each method the need for soil by delivering nutrients directly to has unique advantages, but they all have the plant roots through aqueous solutions. This benefit of precise control of the plant's system can be implemented in a variety of setups environment, resulting in optimized growth and such as nutrient film technology, deep-water yield [6]. https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajmei 25 THE USA JOURNALS THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMICS INNOVATIONS (ISSN- 2693-0811) VOLUME 06 ISSUE06 Figure 2 – Types of hydroponic systems [6] (a) Deep Water Culture. (b) Drip System. (c) Aeroponics. (d) Nutrient Film Technique (NFT). (e) Ebb and flow. (f) Aquaponics crop production [1]. The ability to control the Industrial hydroponic systems typically operate growing environment leads to higher yields and in controlled environments such as greenhouses consistent crop quality, which is important to or indoor facilities. These controlled meet the needs of urban consumers [5]. environments offer several advantages. For example, hydroponic systems can use up to 90% The benefits of hydroponics extend beyond urban less water than traditional agriculture because agriculture. In rural areas where traditional the water is recycled and reused [7]. In addition, agriculture may face problems such as water because there is no need for soil, hydroponics shortage or poor soil quality, hydroponics offers eliminates soil-borne disease and pest problems, an alternative. Precise control over the supply of reducing the need for pesticides. This water and nutrients ensures that crops receive environmentally friendly approach is in line with optimal growing conditions. In addition, the goals of sustainable agriculture, helping to hydroponic systems can be adapted to different address problems such as water scarcity and crops, allowing farmers to diversify their pollution [2]. production and respond to market needs [4]. Hydroponic systems have demonstrated their The integration of renewable energy sources such us