At FrontAg Nexus, we’re excited to showcase the innovative strides made by our partner, the University of Bologna (UNIBO), in fostering sustainable agricultural solutions. Let’s take a visual journey through their demonstration sites!
Distal Hydroponics: Pioneering Sustainable Hydroponics
The following photographs unveil the simplicity and ingenuity of the hydroponic system at DISTAL Lab. The pilot project’s mission is clear: to advance research and education on sustainable, low-tech cultivation systems tailored for urban areas facing disadvantages. By exploring hydroponics, Distal Hydroponics is sowing the seeds of resilience, aiming to create accessible agricultural solutions for urban communities.
Salus Space: A Glimpse into Sustainable Urban Living
Nestled in the suburbs of Bologna, Salus Space is not just a redeveloped structure; it’s a testament to the city’s commitment to revitalising urban areas. This innovative space comprises a restaurant, housing units, productive indoor containers, a lush garden, a biolake, and communal areas for events. Constructed by the Municipality of Bologna, Salus Space stands as a living example of sustainable urban development.
Central to Salus Space is its shipping container equipped with high-tech hydroponic system. The system aims to achieve self-sufficiency in vegetable production, with lettuce, tomatoes, microgreens, kale and mushrooms flourishing within the innovative infrastructure. Beyond its immediate impact,the aquaponic setup serves as an experimental area for research conducted by the University of Bologna (UNIBO), exploring novel ways to enhance sustainable food production.
Insect Farming: A Tiny Marvel for Sustainable Protein
Insect farming represents a frontier in sustainable protein production, offering a viable and eco-friendly alternative. Within the confines of Distal Lab’s controlled environment, the first picture presents the open incubator meticulously designed for Galleria Mellonella production. The overarching objective of this demonstration site initiative is to engage in rigorous scientific inquiry, focusing on the development of cost-effective and sustainable diets for optimal insect production, with a particular emphasis on utilising food wastes as a nutrient substrate.
The intended outcome is to establish a comprehensive understanding of the nutritional dynamics necessary for Galleria Mellonella cultivation within an economically viable framework. A key facet of this research is the subsequent utilisation of these cultivated insects as a primary nutritional component for aquaponic fishes, contributing to the intricate symbiosis envisioned within our sustainable agricultural paradigm.
Sustainable Housing with a Green Touch
Salus Space is not merely a collection of structures; it’s a conscious effort to create sustainable housing. By integrating sustainable cultivation systems into its design, the demonstration sites set a new standard for eco-friendly living. The green spaces within the infrastructure contribute not only to the aesthetic appeal but also serve as a living laboratory for UNIBO‘s experimental research.
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.
