TransFarm

TransFarm project fosters the spread and adoption of circular and soilless farming methods, such as Aquaponics, which is a farming method where fish and vegetables are grown in symbiosis. The project adopts a holistic approach that works across the three dimensions of sustainability to build a more resilient food system. Bringing circular food production to the urban city areas, and growing all year round both vegetables and fish, these both will contribute to a reduced environmental impact and will improve the access to healthy food, and in addition it will also create new jobs.

Expected results

The project main result is the demonstration of potential of resilient circular farming systems that can supplement the food production chain. The main impacts will be measured as actual improvements in comparison to conventional farming systems.

The piloting systems will show how circular farming systems can reduce the use of virgin materials, such as water and soil – the project will demonstrate that Aquaponics can use up to 10% of the amount of water used for conventional irrigation. Since the system is soilless, there is no need to increase the use of soil for farming. In addition, the environmental impact of farming concerning nutrients will be reduced. The project will showcase a closed loop method, with no run-off of nutrients in the environment.

Expected results

The project main result is the demonstration of potential of resilient circular farming systems that can supplement the food production chain. The main impacts will be measured as actual improvements in comparison to conventional farming systems.

The piloting systems will show how circular farming systems can reduce the use of virgin materials, such as water and soil – the project will demonstrate that Aquaponics can use up to 10% of the amount of water used for conventional irrigation. Since the system is soilless, there is no need to increase the use of soil for farming. In addition, the environmental impact of farming concerning nutrients will be reduced. The project will showcase a closed loop method, with no run-off of nutrients in the environment.

Duration 01.03.2023 - 28.02.2026

Total budget

Programme priority

Improved environment and resource use

Programme objective

PO3 - Joint circular economy solutions

Lead partner

University of Turku

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