Akuponi Co., Ltd. is a large-scale aquaponics farm that will open in Aisai City, Aichi Prefecture, in March 2023 by Aquatech Co., Ltd., which operates a plumbing and sanitary equipment business. "I was in charge of the design, material procurement, and construction supervision of the farm. By using a vertical hydroponic system, we have improved the production volume per site area. One hydroponic tower can grow up to 72 strains," says the company spokesperson at Akuponi.
The new farm is established with the aim of growing local food and employment in cooperation with various local companies and organizations. The number of plants that can be produced is about 20,000, and as of March 2023, 'it will be one of the largest aquaponics farms in Japan.'
With the cooperation of the Aichi Kaifu Agricultural Cooperative Association and Nagoya Nishi Seika Co., Ltd., the farm will produce leafy vegetables such as lettuce and Italian parsley, as well as tilapia (tilapia) and the local specialty of Tsushima City, moroko sushi.
The technology
Akponi's patented technology hydroponics and land-based aquaculture can be switched at any time in the event of troubles due to the combination of vegetables and fish. The company has installed a switching-type device that can be separated. Tsunagu Farm is the first commercial facility in Japan to be equipped with this equipment, realizing stable production and stable supply.
In collaboration with give & give, Akponi will outsource some of the work related to the production and sale of vegetables and fish. By providing Tsunagaru Farm as a place where people with disabilities can work with peace of mind, the company will contribute to the independence and social reintegration of people with disabilities in the community.
Read the entire article at PR Times Japan (in Japanese)