Vertical Farming Embarking on a groundbreaking journey towards sustainability, residential buildings in the UAE are embracing a transformative concept known as vertical farming. This innovative approach marks the intersection of smart agriculture and urban architecture, with the aim of turning Dubai into a greener and more environmentally conscious city.
Educational Roots: The Birth of Vertical Farming at CUD
The genesis of this forward-thinking concept can be traced back to a dedicated team of students at the Canadian University Dubai (CUD) School of Engineering, Applied Science, and Technology. Their visionary project outlines a building design where designated floors for vertical farms seamlessly integrate with residential spaces, boasting an urban architectural design strategically maximizing sunlight for enhanced sustainability.
Agri-Connect: Integrating Technology for Sustainable Farming: Vertical Farming
Agri-Connect, the brainchild of computer engineering and computational science students Yasmine Sadek, Moustafa Sherif, and Ayman Samsudeen, along with graduate Adel Yousefi, stands as a technological marvel. This innovative solution seamlessly integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and elements of urban architecture, smart agriculture, and smart cities. The result is an ecosystem supporting vertical farming within intelligent buildings.
Smart Monitoring for Plant and Building Health: Vertical Farming
Yasmine Sadek delves into the technology, stating, “Our project focuses particularly on innovations in farming and agriculture using IoT components. It involves vertical smart farms that are incorporated into building designs and monitored through satellite imagery and the use of advanced sensors and cameras to assess various plant health indicators, such as moisture and humidity, soil pH, and nutrient levels.”
Advanced Plant Disease Assessment through AI and Satellite Imaging
Satellite imagery, equipped with sensors, traverses the city, capturing images of plants externally exposed on the sides of buildings. An Artificial Intelligence model meticulously analyzes these images, sending valuable data to farmers for potential plant disease assessment. This process is further enhanced by predictive models and the utilization of edge computing capabilities during satellite scans.
Sustainable Closed-Loop System: Water and Waste Integration
Within the building, farms utilize irrigation water sourced from residential buildings, establishing a closed-loop system to minimize water wastage. Surplus water and waste from the buildings are thoughtfully redirected to the farms, fostering an efficient and sustainable cycle. Furthermore, climate-tailored crop cultivation adds to the diversity of produce based on specific needs.
Empowering Residents: Consumption Monitoring through Dedicated Dashboards
Residents are empowered with access to a dedicated dashboard for monitoring water and electricity consumption, facilitating effective regulation of their daily lives. The repurposing of food waste as compost further contributes to a sustainable environment within the building.
The Vision for Future Cities: Sustainable Urban Ecosystems
In expressing the broader vision, Yasmine Sadek notes, “The future of cities lies in their ability to harness technology to create sustainable urban ecosystems. Smart buildings are, therefore, the backbone to a flourishing society as they promote environmental sustainability and cost savings by integrating different technologies.” This innovative initiative stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of urban living, where technological integration harmonizes with ecological responsibility.
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