The Bodrum district is establishing a new greenhouse in the Parks and Gardens Department area in the Ortakent Neighborhood, moving towards sustainable agriculture. The Bodrum Municipality is setting an ideal standard in sustainable agriculture by constructing a new greenhouse, which stands as an example to innovative environmental management and effective resource management.
Green innovations on display
One of the key highlights of the Bodrum Greenhouse project is its sustainable water supply. This facility will utilise groundwater, unlike conventional greenhouses that rely on main water. By tapping into natural groundwater sources, the greenhouse avoids the potentially harmful effects of chlorine found in main water, ensuring a healthier environment for the plants. To facilitate this, the site has two large artesian water tanks and pumps, providing a steady and reliable water supply.
To reduce costs and promote waste management, the greenhouse construction will incorporate scrap iron sourced from old playgrounds and basketball courts managed by the Parks and Gardens Department. This innovative approach minimises construction costs and embodies the reuse philosophy, turning waste into valuable building materials. The structure’s covering will be done using greenhouse nylon. At the same time, the upper part will utilise excess material from another greenhouse in the Mumcular neighborhood, further emphasising the project’s commitment to sustainability.
For the greenhouse’s electrical installation, the project team is using existing materials, purchasing new ones only if necessary. The existing infrastructure will be leveraged to draw water from the tanks to the greenhouse, ensuring efficient water distribution. Additionally, a pump may be acquired to facilitate the hydroponic systems, which are central to the greenhouse’s operations.
A Hub of Agricultural Innovation
The greenhouse is strategically located at the entrance of the Parks and Gardens area, making it easily accessible to visitors while keeping it separate from other ongoing projects. This location is visitor-friendly and conveniently close to the water tanks and central electrical installation, streamlining the project’s logistics.
On-site measurements indicate that the greenhouse will occupy a 40 m² area, with dimensions of approximately 8×5 metres. This compact yet efficient design maximises the available space while ensuring optimal growing conditions for the plants.
Looking ahead
Once completed, the greenhouse will primarily be used for growing lettuce, employing two different hydroponic systems: solid medium culture and water medium culture. These systems are currently being sized, with final plans to be shared soon for consultation. This approach diversifies the cultivation methods and enhances the greenhouse’s ability to produce high-quality crops in a controlled toxin-free environment.
The Bodrum Greenhouse project is more than just a facility; it’s a model of how sustainable practices can be integrated into everyday operations. By using recycled materials, leveraging natural resources, and implementing advanced agricultural techniques, this project is setting a new standard for green initiatives in the region.
Disclaimer
This publication reflects the views of the author only. The European Commission and PRIMA Foundation cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
This project (GA n° [2242]) is part of the PRIMA programme supported by the European Union.
FrontAg Nexus at a glance
Instrument: PRIMA, the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area
Total costs: € 3.206.895,00
Duration: 3 years, 1/5/2023 – 30/4/2026
Consortium: A total of 10 partners from 8 countries (Germany, Greece, Italy, Israel, Jordan, Morocco,Tunisia, Türkiye)
FrontAg Nexus Homepage by PRIMA: https://qap.mel.cgiar.org/projects/1828
