Event Title

Sustainable Agriculture: History, Progression, and Future of Aquaponics Systems

Location

Parker-Reed, SSWAC

Start Date

30-4-2015 2:00 PM

End Date

30-4-2015 3:55 PM

Project Type

Poster

Description

It is recognized worldwide that there is a need to make an effort to increase food production to meet the demand of the existing as well as the ever-rising population trend. By considering these issues, it is assumed that a certain approach is needed to increase food production without causing harm to the environment and health. The primary solution promoted within the agricultural development community is to intensify agricultural production, however, it is also recognized that intensification also brings serious environmental costs. Implementing sustainable agriculture strategies that aim to increase the production of food while using farming techniques that protect the environment, public health, and human communities is essential. One strategy has been used for thousands of years, and has the potential to provide more efficient and higher yielding food items. Aquaponics is the combination of hydroponics with aquaculture. There are many different types of aquaponics systems, but the general concept is that fish are in a water body that is used to water plants. The fish produce nitrogen waste, which is used by the plant. The plants also use photosynthesis to get energy, which releases oxygen into the water. Since the plants and fish help provide each other with necessary nutrients and gasses, these systems can be self sustaining for long periods of time. The systems are space efficient, nutrient efficient, and provide both plants and protein for the grower. With food security becoming more of a concern globally, aquaponics systems could be a good solution.

Faculty Sponsor

Russ Cole

Sponsoring Department

Colby College. Environmental Studies Program

CLAS Field of Study

Interdisciplinary Studies

Event Website

http://www.colby.edu/clas

ID

1520

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Apr 30th, 2:00 PM Apr 30th, 3:55 PM

Sustainable Agriculture: History, Progression, and Future of Aquaponics Systems

Parker-Reed, SSWAC

It is recognized worldwide that there is a need to make an effort to increase food production to meet the demand of the existing as well as the ever-rising population trend. By considering these issues, it is assumed that a certain approach is needed to increase food production without causing harm to the environment and health. The primary solution promoted within the agricultural development community is to intensify agricultural production, however, it is also recognized that intensification also brings serious environmental costs. Implementing sustainable agriculture strategies that aim to increase the production of food while using farming techniques that protect the environment, public health, and human communities is essential. One strategy has been used for thousands of years, and has the potential to provide more efficient and higher yielding food items. Aquaponics is the combination of hydroponics with aquaculture. There are many different types of aquaponics systems, but the general concept is that fish are in a water body that is used to water plants. The fish produce nitrogen waste, which is used by the plant. The plants also use photosynthesis to get energy, which releases oxygen into the water. Since the plants and fish help provide each other with necessary nutrients and gasses, these systems can be self sustaining for long periods of time. The systems are space efficient, nutrient efficient, and provide both plants and protein for the grower. With food security becoming more of a concern globally, aquaponics systems could be a good solution.

https://digitalcommons.colby.edu/clas/2015/program/32