Crops

Ways to overcome challenges to achieve economically sustainable aquaponic system

Advanced aquaponic system combining fish farming with plant cultivation

To achieve economic sustainability, specific technical challenges should be addressed. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

While sustainable food production through aquaponic systems is promising, achieving economic sustainability requires the addressing of specific technical challenges, writes Saurabh Maral

Sustainable food production through aquaponic systems is promising. Consegic Business Intelligence analyses that the aquaponics market size is growing with a CAGR of 10.8% during the forecast period (2023-2031), and is projected to be valued at US$2,151.97mn by 2031. The following are the major areas that should be carefully examined for the proper functioning of the systems and to ensure that they are profitable:

Balancing nutrient supply and demand

One of the biggest issues in aquaponics is to make the waste of fish nutrient producers in the same way as plants need it. Fish produce waste as ammonia, which is converted to nitrites and nitrates by bacteria. Besides, plants rely on these compounds to grow, though the unbalance can lead to poor nutrient use or else toxic conditions for fish. A multi-stage biofiltration system will be a successful part of the process of the plant requirements with the desired quality of biofertiliser. Both the bacteria conversion part and the phytoplankton assimilation part from plants should be framed within the biofiltration and recycling of the waste in the closed aquatic ecosystem.

Maintaining water quality

Quality of water is very critical for the well-being of both fish and plants. However, critical parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and temperature should be constantly monitored to prevent any growth issues or mortality in the system. Water monitoring systems that are automated with sensors can provide data in real time and make adjustments as necessary. On the other hand, incorporating machine learning algorithms allows predictive maintenance to take place, thus, reducing the risk of system failure. Additionally, water testing on a regular basis, along with filter maintenance, also plays a huge role in maintaining smooth operation.

Energy efficiency

Aquaponic systems can require a lot of power because of water pumping, aeration, and temperature control. Eroding the profit margin through high energy bills makes energy efficiency a crucial element of sustainability. Energy-conservation equipment such as variable-speed pumps, which are quiet and can be run at different speeds, and high-efficiency aerators can significantly save energy. Besides this, companies can also contribute to absorbing energy costs by employing solar panels and optimising the system design so that water traveling distance would be minimised to lower energy consumption.

Fish and plant species selection

For the aquaponic system to be successful, it is important the appropriate fish and plants are chosen as not all of them are suitable for such kind of systems. The fish that are going to be introduced into the system need to be sturdy because sometimes water conditions can be less than ideal. Also, the plants should get their nutrients from the fish waste. Tilapia, catfish, and trout are the species of fish that are widely used for their robustness, while leafy greens and herbs like lettuces and basil are plants that are particularly recommended. Small-scale trials on different species arrangements will give the combination of plants and fish that will result in the best performance of the system.

Scaling the system economically

The project of upgrading a layer that grows in the system of aquaponics to a commercial level conduces to the augmentation of the complexity in front of high upfront costs, increased production of labour, and more complex system dynamics. The goal of achieving economies of scale without a decrease in the sustainability of the system is of utmost importance. The modular system design helps scale down the size of the farm gradually while at the same time reducing the risks and the initial investment. Automation of the main processes in the life cycle such as feeding, water circulation, and environmental control will minimise labeling work. Data-based tools for analysing the performance of the systems guarantee scalability and constant yield development.

Conclusion

To attain a profitable aquaponic model, it is imperative to deal with main difficulties like nutrient balance, water quality, energy efficiency, species selection, and system scalability. By employing innovative biofiltration systems, automation technologies, power-efficient building components, and data-centric decision support systems, managers will be able to get the most out of the system at the same time as reducing operating expenditures. By means of such approaches, aquaponics promises to be a sustainable food production method that is environmentally friendly and economically sound for the long term.

ICBA demonstrates transformative agri project in Karakalpakstan

This project represents a successful model of Global South-South and Triangular Collaboration, involving ICBA, ADFD, and local partners in Uzbekistan. (Image source:

A recent ceremony conducted by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev aimed to demonstrate its major multi-year project focused on increasing the productivity of degraded and saline areas of Karakalpakstan

The project 'Development of Sustainable Agricultural Production Systems in Degraded Areas of Karakalpakstan,' represents a landmark in global cooperation. Since its launch in 2022, with US$5mn in funding from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), the project has made substantial progress in addressing the severe environmental challenges in Karakalpakstan, primarily caused by the shrinking of the Aral Sea.

The project was successful in introducing 25 genotypes of different food and fodder crops at demonstration sites in Nukus, Chimbay, and Muynak, where field trials have shown promising results. The project has also focused on improving irrigation infrastructure across these sites with the installation of advanced systems such as drip irrigation and water storage solutions, greatly enhancing water management.

Various soil amendments were introduced to increase soil fertility, which contributed to the overall sustainability of agricultural systems in the region. Modern agri-aquaculture systems and locally adopted greenhouses are being developed, further showcasing the innovative approaches the project has embraced. More than 200 scientists, extension workers, and farmers have been trained in different aspects of soil, water, and crop management, ensuring the transfer of knowledge and best practices to local communities.

The progress of this project will open doors to scaling up numerous innovations and technologies that have been successfully introduced, with a cornerstore of this project being its focus on empowering women in agriculture. Targeted training programmes and farmer field schools have allowed women to develop the necessary skills and resources to lead sustainable agricultural practices. This empowerment not only boosts their livelihoods, but also strengthens the overall resilience of their communities, ensuring that the benefits of the project are widely felt.

“This project exemplifies the collaborative efforts between ICBA, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), and our partners in Uzbekistan, including the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change, the Karakalpakstan Agriculture Research Institute (KARI), and the International Innovation Centre for the Aral Sea Basin (IICAS)," said Director General of ICBA, Dr Tarifa Al Zaabi.

China to use FOCAC platform to promote joint agri projects with Zambia

China is willing to work with Zambia to make good use of the FOCAC platform. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Chinese Ambassador Han Jing exchanged his views on China-Zambia agricultural cooperation during a courtesy call 26 August, on Minister of Agriculture of Zambia, Reuben Phiri

China's is optimistic about Zambia's agricultural investment prospects and is willing to work alongside Zambia to utilise the platform of Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), to promote more joint agricultural projects in Zambia and more exports of Zambian agricultural products to China to benefit the two peoples.

The Ministry of Zambia has rendered strong support, in turn guarenteeing the implementation of the consensus reached by the two heads of state and further deepening of the comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership between China and Zambia.

Minister Phiri stated that Zambia-China agricultural cooperation has yielded fruitful results under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state and welcomed Ambassador Han to assume his office. This opens a gateway for Chinese businesses to invest in Zambia's agricultural sector, with the upcoming FOCAC Summit hoping to serve as a mutually beneficial, win-win cooperation between the two countries in the field of modern agriculture.

Philippines DA visits ICRISAT-led project sites in India

The delegation visits ICRISAT's research facilities in Patancheru, Hyderabad. (Image source: ICRISAT)

Agricultural delegation from the Philippines Department of Agriculture (DA) recently embarked on an eight-day exposure visit to various ICRISAT-led project sites in India to provide insights into innovative climate-smart agricultural practices and effective water and soil management technologies

Starting their visit in Uttar Pradesh's Nota village, the research, development and policy stakeholders engaged with members of the ‘Progressive Bundelkhand Farmer Producer Company’ (FPC), while discussing the FPC’s activities and initiatives, gaining valuable insights into how ICRISAT supports local farmers by organising them as FPOs and FPCs.

ICRISAT’s principal scientist & cluster head, Dr Ramesh Singh provided an elaborate overview of the soil and water management challenges affecting 40 villages in the region, further enriching the delegation's understanding of the critical issues faced by the community.

In Jhansi district's Bhadokhar village, the delegation came across various rainwater conservation methods including structures known as haveli cultivation and learned about their importance in preventing soil erosion. ICRISAT's Horticulture scientist, Dr Rohan Khopade explained fruit-based agroforestry practices, while scientific officer, Dr Ashok Shukla highlighted the benefits of the equipment installed by ICRISAT, such as the Automatic Weather Station (AWS), Time-Domain Reflectometry (TDR) for measuring soil moisture, a groundwater-level indicator, and runoff measuring devices.

Moreover, the delegation proceeded to exploring other parts of the state including Sutta and Singar villages in Jhansi and Pura Birdha in Lalitpur. In addition to hearing firsthand accounts from local farmers, the delegation also interacted with public representatives, including Member of Parliament, Anurag Sharm and Chief Development Officer of Jhansi, Junaid Ahmad to understand the role of local and national administration in the successful implementation of projects.

In Odisha, the delegation explored a number of ICRISAT-facilitated model sites where they observed the role of women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in successful enterprises, such as the Dwarf Coconut Nursery, which produces 100,000 seedlings annually, and ventures into ornamental nurseries and apiculture as alternative livelihoods. Other notable community projects such as the Waste-to-Wealth Management project provided adequate insight into the transformation of waste into valuable resources, while also efficiently converting invasive species like water hyacinth into compost, in turn helping to maintain clean water bodies to grow organic vegetables.

Their visit finally concluded with an exploration of the state-of-the-art facilities of Genebank, Agromet Lab, Living Lab, Centre of Excellence in Climate Change Research for Plant Protection, Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Systems Biology, and the Agri-Business Incubation Centre.

Senior agriculturist at the Bureau of Agricultural Research in the Philippines, Kris Thea Marie Hernandez underscored the group's commitment to applying learnings from the visit to their local communities, particularly in rainfed areas, in pursuit of the Philippine Department of Agriculture’s goal to increase agricultural productivity and ensure food security.

Bridging financial gap between smallholder farmers

The agreement supports streamlined approach on deal sourcing and investment, risk sharing, and technical assistance, aimed at raising farmers' incomes. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

A new partnership was recently announced between the IDH Farmfit Fund and social impact investor Oikocredit, aimed at reducing the financing gap for smallholder farmers

The two organisations have signed a collaborative agreement, committing to creating synergies in their sourcing and investment transactions. By aligning their approach and intensifying their collaboration, the Farmfit Fund and Oikocredit will create efficiencies that accelerate impact for smallholder farmers.

While developing economies have a total available amount of US$9bn, the actual financial need of smallholder farmers is US$450bn. In order to bridge this financial gap, Farmfit Fund and Oikocredit are providing loans to cooperatives and other small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the smallholder farming sector, thereby enabling cooperatives to export directly and sell their products at improved conditions, while also investing in climate smart agriculture practices.

Through their collaboration, the two organisations will streamline their interventions, allowing both to accelerate impact. Aligning investment processes and criteria, and utilising each other's unique and extensive network and knowledge in producing countries, will enable the two organisations to source, structure and monitor deals. Additionally, the partnership will also share risks and provide technical assistance where necessary, thereby ensuring the success and sustainability of their interventions.

“Smallholder agriculture is the backbone of many emerging economies. The collaboration with IDH enables Oikocredit to invest more in smallholder farmers who are important in providing safe and affordable food for local communities and play a crucial role in the fight against climate change,” said director of Specialised Finance and Community Building at Oikocredit, Hans Perk.

Roel Messie CEO of IDH Investment Management and IDH Farmfit Fund also highlighted the previous partnership between the two organisations to provide loans to smallholder-focused Agri SMEs in Guatemala and Nicaragua. "This experience has revealed how aligned our strategies are and how much we can achieve if we bundle our knowledge and networks. By formalising our collaboration in this broader framework, we can build on our complementarity to further improve the livelihoods of smallholders.”

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