The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation Season 2 Episode 24 Vertical Farm
- May 14, 2016
In season 2 episode 24 of The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation, viewers are introduced to the concept of vertical farming, a new and innovative way to produce crops in urban areas with limited space. Host Mo Rocca explores the benefits of vertical farming, which include reduced water usage, increased crop yields, and the ability to grow fresh produce in areas where traditional farming methods are not possible.
Mo meets with a team of scientists and engineers who are working on perfecting the vertical farming process. They explain how the use of LED lights and hydroponic systems allows them to control every aspect of the plant's growth, from the amount of light it receives to the exact amount of nutrients it needs. This meticulous approach to farming allows for a higher yield of crops in a smaller space, making it an ideal solution for urban areas.
Next, Mo visits a vertical farm in Brooklyn, New York to see the process in action. The farm is housed in a former pharmaceutical factory and is able to grow a variety of crops including leafy greens, herbs, and even strawberries. Mo learns that vertical farming allows for year-round production, regardless of the weather outside. He also observes that the farm is completely pesticide-free and is able to operate with a fraction of the water required by traditional farming methods.
As Mo continues his exploration of vertical farming, he visits a unique project in Japan where an abandoned underground tunnel has been repurposed into a vertical farm. The team behind the project believes that this method of farming could be a solution to the rising food demands in urban areas. The tunnel is filled with rows of vertical growing systems, each one producing a different crop. The innovative use of the space allows for a large quantity of crops to be grown in a very small area.
Finally, Mo takes a look at the future of vertical farming and how it could impact the way we produce and consume food. He meets with a designer who has created a concept for a vertical farm that could be housed in a skyscraper. The farm would use natural light from the top of the building to grow crops that could be sold on the lower floors. The designer believes that this type of vertical farming could revolutionize the way we live in urban areas, making it easier to access fresh, locally-grown produce.
Overall, season 2 episode 24 of The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation offers a fascinating look at the cutting-edge world of vertical farming and its potential to transform the way we think about agriculture in urban areas. With its focus on innovation, this episode showcases the ingenuity and passion of scientists and engineers who are working to create a healthier and more sustainable future for all.