About This Project

Comparing the sustainability and economic viability of traditional vertical farming systems versus solar powered systems for alternative protein cultivation.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Wolffia globosa is gaining increased research interest because it can be a source of sustainable plant-protein. It contains up to 40% protein, fibre, key vitamins like B12 and antioxidants without needing arable land to grow as it rapidly grows on the surface of stagnant water. Researchers have already started making snacks with the Wolffia protein powder, concluding that its addition “greatly [enhances] nutritional value.”

However, from current techno-economic analysis of duckweed systems, it is overly expensive to grow duckweed in ponds because of the capital expenses of pond construction and labour costs of harvesting. Researchers have made vertical farming systems, but operating costs remain high.

What is the significance of this project?

Wolffia globosa is the most promising plant-based protein, gaining traction in recent years. However, farming systems have been inadequate. This project will conduct a life cycle analysis and techno-economic analysis of a vertical farming system for Wolffia globosa.

The world population is projected to reach 10 billion by 2050. We need to feed more people without further exploiting animals and degrading our environment. Although interest in plant-based diets have increased, plant-protein products are still too expensive for most families. Wolffia globosa can help deliver the nutrition we need sustainably and is suited for vertical farming. However, the high energy use and high labour costs must be solved to make vertically farmed Wolffia protein an economical choice.

What are the goals of the project?

The funds will be used to buy components for the vertical farming system, pay students to build it and perform a life cycle and techno-economic analysis for an industrial system.

Specifically, the vertical farm will have 5 layers of trays to grow duckweed under grow lights. A water pump will recirculate water throughout the gravity fed system through pipes. Harvesting will be automated by operating a gate valve to expel duckweed onto a mesh. Lastly, the system will be connected to a solar array and battery pack. The battery will charge from the panels during the day or the grid when electricity is cheap. Sensors such as temperature, pH, light intensity, and water level will be connected to a Raspberry Pi that sends data about the system to researchers.