Sharjah: While some parts of the world are grappling with food security brought about by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) has been developing innovative and sustainable methods of agricultural production.
Located inside SRTIP is Merlin Agrotunnel, an aquaponics farm with an area of around 150 square metres that can produce one ton of organic vegetables and fruits per month.
According to SRTIP, Merlin Agrotunnels use very little water – about 90 per cent less than conventional farming – and because they are based on aquaponics, they also produce fresh fish, along with a range of vegetables and fruits.
“Aquaponics is a form of agriculture that combines raising fish in tanks with soil-less plant culture (hydroponics). The nutrient-rich water from raising fish provides a natural fertiliser for the plants and the plants help to purify the water for the fish,” the SRTIP explained.