The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and La Sapienza University of Rome have strengthened their collaboration in sustainable agriculture through the inauguration of a cutting-edge hydroponic garden on the FAO terrace. This innovative project, sponsored by La Sapienza University, the Mountain Partnership Secretariat, and the Italian Development Cooperation, introduces advanced water-based growing techniques, marking a significant advancement in traditional hydroponics.
Innovative Features and Sustainability
The newly inaugurated garden builds on the foundation laid by the initial hydroponic system installed in 2021. A key feature of this latest garden is its use of tap water, eliminating the need for demineralized water and thereby conserving resources. Organic fertilizers exclusively nourish the plants, enhancing the system’s ecological sustainability. Microorganisms dissolved in the water bolster plant resilience against stressors such as high temperatures and pests.
Designed for outdoor use, the garden does not rely on artificial lighting, unlike conventional hydroponic systems, leading to remarkably low daily energy consumption. Additionally, it is constructed with 90 percent-certified sustainable wood, significantly reducing plastic usage compared to traditional hydroponic setups.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
During the inauguration ceremony, which was attended by La Sapienza University Rector Antonella Polimeni and Deputy Permanent Representative of Italy to FAO Stefania Costanza, FAO Director-General highlighted the synergy of traditional and modern technology embodied in hydroponic agriculture. He underscored the vital role of continuous dialogue between academia and FAO, which he believes will yield mutual benefits.
Future Research and Applications
The hydroponic garden is set to function as a research hub for exploring efficient resource management in soilless agriculture. This initiative holds promise as an alternative or supplement to conventional farming, particularly in regions facing water scarcity and limited arable land, such as mountainous areas.
Renewed Collaboration and Commitment
In conjunction with the garden’s inauguration, the FAO Director-General and the Rector of La Sapienza University reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration under FAO’s Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) and the Mountain Partnership. This renewed partnership, outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding signed in December 2023, aims to further sustainable agricultural practices and innovations.
The launch of this hydroponic garden marks a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture, potentially transforming food production in resource-constrained environments and setting a precedent for future advancements in the field.
