Key Takeaways:
- Innovative Collaboration: Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS) partners with ReFarm for Dubai’s GigaFarm project.
- Waste-to-Value Farming: The 900,000 sq. ft. GigaFarm will recycle food waste and grow two billion plants yearly.
- Sustainable Approach: Incorporating circularity and clean technologies, the project aims for eco-friendly food production.
- Technological Integration: The project unites six technologies for efficient resource use and waste reduction.
- Food Security Contribution: GigaFarm aims to replace 1% of UAE’s food imports and grow over three million kilos of produce annually.
The Vision of GigaFarm
In a landmark move, Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS) has partnered with ReFarm to develop the GigaFarm in Dubai’s Food Tech Valley. This 900,000-square-foot facility, expected to begin construction in mid-2024 and be operational by 2026, is poised to set new standards in sustainable agriculture. Designed to process over 50,000 tonnes of food waste and grow two billion plants annually, GigaFarm aims to significantly contribute to the UAE’s food security.
Sustainable Technologies at the Core
GigaFarm will incorporate six complementary technologies in a closed-loop system, creating a self-contained ecosystem for maximizing resource efficiency and minimizing landfill waste. This approach reflects a significant advancement in sustainable food production. The farm’s capacity to grow over three million kilos of produce annually aligns with the UAE’s goal of reducing reliance on food imports and decarbonizing food production.
Recycling and Resource Efficiency
An innovative aspect of GigaFarm is its use of black soldier fly larvae for on-site food waste recycling. This process will produce valuable by-products like organic compost, animal feed, and water for vertical farming. Furthermore, the project will recover ammonia sulfate from wastewater for use in plant fertilizers, exemplifying its commitment to sustainable resource use.
Leadership and Partnerships in Focus
The project has garnered support from prominent figures and entities, including HE Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and HE Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim, Group CEO of Wasl. Their endorsements emphasize the project’s alignment with the UAE’s strategic goals of diversifying its economy and addressing food insecurity.
Agricultural Diversity and Water Efficiency
Saeed Al Marri from SSK Enterprises highlighted GigaFarm’s capability to grow various plants, emphasizing its water efficiency and contribution to landscape regeneration and food security. Oliver Christof of CGI pointed out the project’s transformative impact on the sustainable food industry, particularly in CO2 savings.
Global Significance and Potential of ReFarm
David Farquhar, CEO of IGS, underscored the project’s innovative approach to combating food insecurity and its potential for global application. UK Minister of State echoed this sentiment for Climate, Environment and Energy, Lord Benyon, who recognized the project’s contribution to global food security.
Support from the UK Government
Oliver Christian, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan, highlighted the UK Government’s support for the project, noting its role in advancing decarbonized food security and high-value exports from the UK. Mohamad Ballout, CEO of Kitopi, expressed pride in joining this initiative, emphasizing its impact on sustainable solutions in the food industry.
Image provided by IGS
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