Vertical Farming

Vertical farms grow crops in stacked layers inside climate-controlled buildings. Instead of soil, the plants are usually fed by nutrient-rich water. Because the environment is carefully controlled, pesticides are rarely necessary. These farms can also produce food all year round, regardless of the weather. Supporters argue that they could ease the pressure on agricultural land. Critics point out that artificial lighting consumes an enormous amount of electricity. For now, the approach works best for leafy greens and herbs. Staple crops such as wheat and rice remain far too expensive to grow indoors. Whether vertical farming becomes mainstream will largely depend on cheaper renewable energy.