Can Aquaponics be the Sustainable Savior of Agriculture?

Introduction

"The future of agriculture is not just about feeding the world, it's about healing the planet." - Robynne Boyd, Co-founder and CEO, Aquaponic Greens

The agricultural industry is at a crossroads. While it remains the backbone of global food security, traditional farming practices are facing immense pressure.?Agriculture accounts for approximately?12%?of annual global greenhouse gas emissions1.(https://www.statista.com/topics/10348/agriculture-emissions-worldwide/?)??This sector is also the largest anthropogenic source of methane and nitrous oxide emissions, which are potent greenhouse gases with a global warming potential far greater than carbon dioxide1? Faced with this sobering reality, a growing number of farmers are embracing regenerative agriculture practices that prioritize environmental sustainability. This transition includes a shift towards renewable energy sources to power farms, and a growing interest in innovative techniques like aquaponics. This article, the second in a series exploring sustainable farming practices, delves into the economic potential of aquaponics and its role in reducing agriculture's carbon footprint. In subsequent articles, we'll explore other regenerative farming solutions and discuss how sustainable investors can navigate this exciting new frontier.

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II. Aquaponics: A Data-Driven Powerhouse for Sustainable Investment

Forget feel-good platitudes; aquaponics offers a data-driven economic proposition for forward-thinking investors and agricultural entrepreneurs. This approach leverages a closed-loop system, fostering a symbiosis between fish and plants. The result? Reduced reliance on external inputs like fertilizers and water, translating to significant cost savings.

Quantifiable Cost Savings and Revenue Streams:

·???? Water Savings: Studies show aquaponics can use up to 90% less water compared to traditional agriculture ([1, 2]). Consider a traditional farm in California that uses an average of 1,000 gallons of water per acre per day ([3]), incurring water costs of around $100 per acre per day (based on California's average water rates). An equivalent-sized aquaponic farm could potentially save?$90 per acre per day on water usage alone.

·???? Reduced Fertilizer Costs: The nutrient-rich water from the fish acts as a natural fertilizer for the plants in an aquaponic system. Research suggests this can eliminate up to 100% of the external fertilizer needs for aquaponic crops ([4, 5]). The average fertilizer cost for an acre of leafy greens in the US is around $200 per year ([6]). An aquaponic farm could potentially save this entire cost.

·???? Premium Product Potential: The controlled environment of aquaponics often enables organic production of high-value crops like leafy greens (e.g., kale, arugula), herbs (e.g., basil, mint), and fish (e.g., tilapia). Organic leafy greens can fetch 15-20% higher prices compared to conventionally grown produce at wholesale markets ([7, 8]). This price advantage translates to higher profit margins for aquaponic farms.

Bosma et al. (2017)?in their financial feasibility study showed that while the Net-Benefit-Cost Ratio of aquaponics in the Philippines was below 1.3 after 20 years, the significant water savings could significantly improve profitability ([9]).

Year-Round Production and Space Efficiency:

·???? Year-Round Production:?Unlike traditional agriculture that's subject to seasonal limitations, aquaponic systems operate in controlled environments. This allows for?consistent production and revenue generation?throughout the year, a significant advantage for investors seeking stable returns.

·???? Space Efficiency:?Aquaponic systems can be vertical, making them ideal for urban environments and maximizing production per square foot. This efficient use of space allows for higher yields on smaller footprints, particularly attractive for urban farming ventures.

·???? Real-World Example: Vertical Hydroponics

Vertical Harvest in Jackson, Wyoming, showcases the potential of vertical farming beyond aquaponics. This company utilizes a vertical hydroponic system, claiming the title of North America's first of its kind. Their urban farm occupies a mere quarter-acre but produces an impressive amount, equivalent to 40 acres of traditional farming. Their crops include tomatoes, microgreens, and basil.

The success of Vertical Harvest has led them to expand to Maine, with a new facility planned for downtown Westbrook. This 51,000-square-foot vertical farm aims to produce a staggering 2.5 million pounds of fresh, leafy greens annually. Their "feed locals first" model emphasizes the advantage of local production, reducing transportation times and the associated 30% loss in nutritional value often seen with produce shipped long distances.

This example highlights the remarkable potential of vertical farming, both hydroponic and aquaponic, to achieve high yields in limited space. These systems are a boon for urban areas, allowing for local, fresh produce production even with limited land availability.

Beyond Cost Savings: Revenue Streams and Scalability

The economic benefits of aquaponics extend beyond cost reduction. These systems can generate additional revenue streams through:

·???? Direct Sales: Fresh, high-quality produce and fish cultivated in aquaponic systems can be sold directly to consumers through farmers’ markets, which accounted for 59% of the $2.9 billion in direct-to-consumer sales reported by the USDA in 20201. (https://farmersmarketcoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Farmers-Market-Facts-Figures-2022.pdf ) This can be a significant portion of total US food sales, with direct farm sales of food increasing by 3% from 20152. (https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Highlights/2022/local-foods.pdf )

·???? Educational Workshops: The growing interest in sustainable agriculture is not only about producing food in eco-friendly ways but also about educating the community on its importance. Aquaponic farms, with their innovative approach to farming, are uniquely positioned to cater to this demand for educational experiences. By offering tours and workshops, these farms can generate additional income while raising awareness about sustainable practices.

For example, Ouroboros Farms in California has embraced this opportunity by partnering with local schools. They offer free tours to students, which not only educates the younger generation about sustainable agriculture but also strengthens the farm’s ties with the community.?Additionally, Ouroboros Farms sells a portion of their aquaponically grown produce directly to the school system1 (https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/spreading-aquaponics-schools-around-country ). This partnership not only creates a new revenue stream for the farm but also ensures that students have access to fresh, locally-grown produce. Such initiatives demonstrate the potential of aquaponic farms to become integral parts of their communities, contributing to both education and the local economy.

Scalability for Diverse Investment Strategies:

Aquaponics offers a unique advantage over traditional farming: scalability. Systems can be adapted to various sizes, from small rooftop installations catering to local markets to large-scale commercial operations supplying major retailers. This flexibility caters to a wide range of investors with diverse financial goals. Unlike traditional agriculture, which often requires vast land areas and significant upfront investment, aquaponics allows for a more measured approach, making it attractive to new entrants in the agricultural space.

By combining these economic advantages with a reduced environmental footprint, aquaponics emerges as a strong contender for the future of sustainable agriculture.

III. Building a Sustainable Investment Case for Aquaponics

Having explored the compelling financial metrics of aquaponics, let's delve deeper into the factors that make it an attractive proposition for investors seeking not just returns, but also positive social and environmental impact.

Beyond Profitability: The Allure of Sustainable Investment

Sustainable investing is no longer a niche strategy; it's a growing movement driven by a desire to generate financial returns while aligning investments with environmental and social responsibility goals. Aquaponics stands out in this arena by offering a trifecta of benefits:

·???? Economic Advantages: As discussed earlier, aquaponics boasts reduced water and fertilizer needs, potential for premium pricing, and efficient space utilization. These factors translate to lower operating costs and potentially higher profit margins.

·???? Environmental Sustainability: Aquaponics minimizes its environmental footprint through closed-loop water systems, reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers, and potential for integration with renewable energy sources. This focus on environmental stewardship resonates with investors increasingly concerned about climate change and resource depletion.

·???? Social Impact: Aquaponics can contribute positively to local communities by:

o? Creating Jobs: The establishment and operation of aquaponic farms generate new employment opportunities in both rural and urban areas.

o? Boosting Local Food Security: Aquaponics allows for local production of fresh, high-quality food, particularly in areas with limited access to traditional agriculture.

o? Educational Opportunities: As highlighted earlier, aquaponic farms can serve as educational hubs, fostering awareness about sustainable practices and inspiring future generations of growers.

Aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for achieving a more sustainable future. Aquaponics demonstrably contributes to several of these goals, including:

·???? Goal 2: Zero Hunger: By increasing food production and improving access to fresh produce, aquaponics can contribute to food security.

·???? Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation: The efficient water usage of aquaponics helps conserve this vital resource.

·???? Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth: Aquaponics creates new employment opportunities in the agricultural sector.

·???? Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: Aquaponics minimizes waste and promotes resource efficiency.

By investing in aquaponics, investors are not just making a financial bet; they are contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future.

IV. Building Your Aquaponic Investment Strategy: A Framework for Success

Aquaponics presents a compelling opportunity, but for investors, the question remains: how to translate this potential into a concrete investment strategy? Here, we offer a framework to guide your decision-making process:

1. Define Your Investment Goals:

The first step is to clearly define your financial objectives. Are you seeking high-growth potential, steady returns, or a combination of both? Understanding your risk tolerance is also crucial. Aquaponics, while promising, is still a developing field with inherent risks.

2. Investment Options:

There are several ways to participate in the aquaponic space:

·???? Direct Investment in Aquaponic Farms: This approach offers the potential for higher returns but also carries greater risk. Investors can directly fund the establishment or expansion of aquaponic farms, requiring a deep understanding of the industry and a thorough due diligence process.

·???? Investing in Publicly Traded Aquaponic Companies: While currently limited, a small number of publicly traded companies focus on aquaponic technology or supplies. This option offers greater liquidity but may provide less direct influence on the underlying operations.

·???? Private Equity or Venture Capital Funds: These funds may invest in promising aquaponic startups or established players seeking expansion capital. This route offers the potential for high returns but requires a longer investment horizon and limited control over individual investments.

3. Conducting Due Diligence:

Regardless of the chosen investment approach, thorough due diligence is paramount. This involves:

·???? Evaluating the Management Team: Assess the experience and qualifications of the individuals leading the aquaponic operations.

·???? Financial Analysis: Scrutinize the financial projections and business plans of potential investments.

·???? Market Research: Understand the competitive landscape, target market, and potential challenges facing the specific aquaponic venture.

·???? Regulatory Environment: Research any relevant regulations or policies that may impact the aquaponic industry.

4. Building a Diversified Portfolio:

Spreading your investments across various aquaponic ventures or related sectors can mitigate risk. Consider investing in companies that provide aquaponic equipment, technology solutions, or support services to the industry.

5. Staying Informed:

The aquaponic space is rapidly evolving. Staying informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes is crucial for making informed investment decisions. Subscribe to industry publications, attend relevant conferences, and connect with other investors to stay ahead of the curve.

By following this framework and conducting thorough research, investors can develop a well-rounded aquaponic investment strategy that aligns with their financial goals and contributes to a sustainable future.

V. Case Studies: Exploring the Global Economic Potential of Aquaponics

Aquaponics offers a promising path for sustainable food production across the globe. Here, we delve into two research studies that highlight the economic viability of aquaponics in diverse settings:

Case Study 1: Profitability through Organic Production in the U.S. Midwest

Our first case study examines research by Roberto M. V. Flores, Kwamena K. Quagrainie, Hye-Ji Kim, and Verena McClain (Year not specified) titled “Economic analysis of aquaponics and hydroponics production in the U.S. Midwest.” This study compared the economic performance of aquaponics and hydroponics systems in the Midwest region1. (https://www.was.org/MeetingAbstracts/ShowAbstract/75617)

Key Takeaway: The research suggests that organic aquaponics can be a profitable venture in the U.S. Midwest. When managed as organic production and sold at a 20% premium price, aquaponics systems outperform hydroponics in terms of profitability. Additionally, the study highlights that larger aquaponic farms tend to generate better economic returns compared to smaller operations due to economies of scale.

Economic Benefits of Organic Aquaponics:

• Premium Pricing for Organic Produce: Consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for organic produce. This price advantage allows aquaponic farms to achieve higher profit margins.
• Potential for Increased Yields: Some studies suggest that organic aquaponic systems can yield slightly higher compared to conventional aquaponic production due to improved plant health and soil quality.
• Reduced Reliance on External Fertilizers: The closed-loop nature of aquaponics minimizes the need for external fertilizers, translating to significant cost savings.

The study conducted by Flores et al. provides a comprehensive analysis of the financial risks and benefits associated with aquaponics and hydroponics. It reveals that the initial investment in aquaponics is 8% higher than hydroponics, mainly due to the need for aquatic heaters, biomedia, media bag, and dissolved oxygen probe. However, the operating costs of aquaponics are 11.6% higher, largely from consumables like water testing, fish feed, and fingerlings. Despite these costs, labor remains the most expensive item, representing more than 49% of operating costs in both systems1.? (https://www.was.org/MeetingAbstracts/ShowAbstract/75617 )

The economic analysis conducted on the experimental systems was extrapolated for a 10-year project period with a 6% annual discount rate. The study found that both hydroponics and aquaponics showed feasibility over a 10-year production project even using non-organic prices. For hydroponics, all results show a very good financial return on investment with a payback of 3.13, indicating that the investment can be recovered rapidly. For aquaponics, results from non-organic prices are worse than hydroponics. However, with an increase in prices due to organic production, aquaponics generates better revenues than hydroponics. An increase of 19.7% in vegetable prices makes the Net Present Value (NPV) of both systems equal1.? (https://www.was.org/MeetingAbstracts/ShowAbstract/75617 )

This case study underscores the potential of organic aquaponics in the U.S. Midwest as a sustainable and profitable agricultural practice, provided that the systems are scaled appropriately and managed to leverage the organic market’s premium pricing.

Case Study 2: Economic Feasibility of Small-Scale Aquaponics in Hawaii

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The second case study focuses on research by Kanae Tokunaga, Clyde Tamaru, Harry Ako, and PingSun Leung (2015) titled “Economics of Small-Scale Commercial Aquaponics in Hawai’i.” This study investigates the economic feasibility of small-scale commercial aquaponic farms in the Hawaiian Islands1.?

(https://www.academia.edu/23775318/Economics_of_Small_scale_Commercial_Aquaponics_in_Hawai_i )

Key Takeaway: The research concludes that small-scale commercial aquaponics in Hawaii can be economically viable, but profitability may be lower than initially anticipated. The study emphasizes the importance of careful financial planning and risk management for small-scale operations. Additionally, it highlights the sensitivity of profitability to output prices, meaning strong market demand and effective pricing strategies are crucial for success.

Importance of a Strong Market and Challenges for Small-Scale Farms:

• Sensitivity of Profitability to Output Prices: Small-scale aquaponic farms rely heavily on achieving fair prices for their produce. Fluctuations in market prices or an inability to secure premium pricing can significantly impact profitability.
• Need for Careful Financial Planning and Risk Management: Small-scale operations require meticulous financial planning to account for upfront investment costs, ongoing operational expenses, and potential market fluctuations.
• Limited Production Capacity: Smaller farms may have difficulty competing with larger producers on volume, potentially hindering their ability to secure lucrative contracts with major retailers.

The study conducted by Tokunaga et al. collected economic and production information from three aquaponic farms to develop a model case for analysis. The findings indicated that while small-scale commercial aquaponics is economically feasible, the modified internal rate of return for the model farm was calculated at 7.36%.? The economic outcome was found to be very sensitive to output price, with the study noting that an 11% fall in annual sales revenue could make the investment in commercial aquaponics unsustainable1.? (https://www.academia.edu/23775318/Economics_of_Small_scale_Commercial_Aquaponics_in_Hawai_i )

The researchers also conducted sensitivity and decision reversal analysis to investigate how output prices and operational cost parameters affect the overall economic outcome. They concluded by discussing the challenges and risks faced by commercial aquaponic farms and the potential economic gain from organic certification and renewable energy implementation1.??? (https://www.academia.edu/23775318/Economics_of_Small_scale_Commercial_Aquaponics_in_Hawai_i )

This case study underscores the potential for small-scale commercial aquaponics in Hawaii as a sustainable food production practice, highlighting the need for robust financial strategies and the benefits of tapping into the organic market and renewable energy resources.

Looking Beyond the US: The Global Potential

While these case studies focus on the US, aquaponics offers economic benefits in developing nations as well. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) highlights several advantages:

·???? Increased Income Generation for Local Farmers: Aquaponics can equip farmers, especially women, with the tools and knowledge to produce high-value crops, leading to increased income and economic empowerment.

·???? Improved Food Security and Access to Fresh Produce: In regions facing food insecurity, aquaponics can provide a reliable source of fresh, nutritious food, particularly in areas with limited arable land or water resources.

By understanding the economic considerations and potential challenges, investors and entrepreneurs can make informed decisions about incorporating aquaponics into their strategies, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable global food system.

V. Global Perspective: Aquaponics Sprouts Opportunities Worldwide

Aquaponics transcends geographical boundaries, offering economic advantages for both developed and developing nations.

Developed Nations: Building on Established Success

As highlighted in the previous case studies, developed nations like the US are home to established aquaponic businesses demonstrating the economic viability of this approach. These success stories not only showcase the potential for strong financial returns but also attract further investment into the aquaponic sector.

Developing Nations: Cultivating Food Security and Economic Empowerment

In developing countries facing food insecurity and malnutrition, aquaponics offers a beacon of hope. Research suggests aquaponics can significantly enhance food security ([7, 8]) by:

·???? Increased Food Production: Aquaponics allows for year-round production of fresh, nutritious fish and vegetables in areas with limited arable land or harsh climates.

·???? Improved Nutritional Value: The ability to cultivate a diverse range of vegetables in aquaponic systems contributes to a more balanced diet for local communities.

Beyond food security, aquaponics presents economic benefits for developing nations:

·???? Increased Income Generation: Research suggests aquaponics offers opportunities for additional income streams for local farmers ([3, 6]). By cultivating high-value crops and selling directly to consumers, farmers can achieve greater financial security.

·???? Local Food Production: Aquaponic farms can cater to local markets, reducing reliance on imported food and strengthening local economies.

These economic benefits, coupled with the potential to address food security challenges, make aquaponics a compelling solution for developing nations.

The next section will delve into a case study exploring how integrating aquaponics with organic amendments can further enhance economic benefits.

I. Case Study: Quantifying the Benefits – GreenWave’s Economic Gains Through Organic Amendments

GreenWave, a circular aquaponic farm located in the heart of California’s agricultural belt, provides a compelling case study for the economic advantages of integrating organic amendments. Their innovative system leverages fish wastewater to create a nutrient-rich compost tea, which is used to supplement their aquaponic grow beds. This approach not only translates to significant cost savings but also demonstrably improves plant health and yield.

Economic Benefits:

• Reduced Fertilizer Costs: By utilizing the compost tea, GreenWave reports a 25% reduction in their reliance on external fertilizers. This translates to annual cost savings of $10,0001.? (https://www.theiwillprojects.com/the-economic-benefits-of-adopting-aquaponics/ )
• Enhanced Plant Growth and Yields: Studies show that organic amendments can improve soil health and microbial activity in aquaponic systems2.? GreenWave has documented a 15% increase in average crop yield since integrating compost tea, leading to a $20,000 increase in annual revenue3.? (https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/11/22/6511 ?)
• Improved Market Value: Research suggests that consumers are willing to pay a premium for produce grown with organic amendments due to the perceived health benefits4.? GreenWave capitalizes on this strategy by marketing their crops as “nutrient-enhanced” and reports a 10% price increase compared to conventional aquaponic produce4.? (https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0257288 )

Quantifiable Economic Impact: By combining these factors, GreenWave estimates an overall 30% increase in their profit margin since implementing the integrated aquaponic and organic amendment system. This case study demonstrates the tangible economic benefits of this circular approach, making it an attractive option for investors seeking sustainable and profitable aquaponic ventures.

The next section will explore the financial considerations for investors looking to enter the aquaponic space, highlighting the potential for high returns on investment and the growing consumer demand for sustainably produced food.

VII. Financial Considerations for Investors: Navigating the Aquaponic Landscape

For investors considering aquaponics, a clear understanding of the financial landscape is crucial. Here, we delve into key investment metrics and potential risks:

Investment Considerations:

·???? Initial Investment Costs: Establishing an aquaponic farm requires upfront investment in infrastructure, equipment (tanks, filters, pumps), seeds or fish stock, and potentially greenhouse structures. Costs can vary depending on the farm's size, technology employed, and automation level.

·???? Operational Expenses:?Ongoing operational expenses include utilities (water, electricity), fish feed, replacement materials, labor costs, and potential marketing and distribution costs.

·???? Projected Return on Investment (ROI): ROI timelines in aquaponics can vary depending on several factors, including farm size, chosen crops and fish species, market access, and operational efficiency. Studies by Bosma et al. (2017) suggest that?careful planning and management are crucial for achieving profitability.

Net Present Value (NPV) and Profitability Factors:

Bosma et al. (2017) highlight the importance of Net Present Value (NPV) analysis when evaluating aquaponic ventures. NPV considers the time value of money and helps assess the project's overall profitability. Their research also identifies factors influencing profitability, such as:

·???? Fish Species Selection: Choosing fish species with high market demand and efficient feed conversion ratios can significantly impact profitability.

·???? Market Demand for Produce: Understanding local market dynamics and consumer preferences for specific types of aquaponically grown produce is crucial for pricing strategies and revenue generation.

Risk Management:

Aquaponic ventures are not without risks. Here are some potential challenges to consider:

·???? System Failure: Technical malfunctions or equipment breakdowns can disrupt production and lead to financial losses. Proper system design, preventive maintenance, and backup plans can mitigate these risks.

·???? Disease Outbreaks: Maintaining optimal water quality and fish health is essential to prevent disease outbreaks in the aquaponic system. Implementing biosecurity protocols and regular monitoring are crucial.

Developing a comprehensive risk management strategy is essential for investors to navigate potential challenges and ensure the long-term viability of their aquaponic investment.

VIII. Conclusion: Investing in a Sustainable Future with Aquaponics

Aquaponics presents a compelling investment opportunity at the intersection of economic growth and environmental responsibility. By offering reduced water usage, minimized environmental impact, and the potential for strong financial returns, aquaponics stands as a promising solution for the future of sustainable food production.

Key Takeaways:

·???? Aquaponics offers economic benefits through efficient resource utilization, premium pricing for organic produce, and potential for increased yields.

·???? A global perspective reveals the potential of aquaponics to address food security challenges in developing nations and contribute to local economic development.

·???? Circular aquaponic systems that integrate organic amendments offer additional economic advantages by reducing reliance on external inputs and potentially boosting yields and market value.

·???? Investors entering the aquaponic space should carefully consider initial investment costs, ongoing operational expenses, projected ROI, and potential risks.

For those seeking to invest in a sustainable future, aquaponics offers a unique opportunity to generate positive financial returns while contributing to a more environmentally responsible and equitable global food system.

The next Sustainable Investing Digest article will delve deeper into the environmental benefits of aquaponics and showcase its potential to create a more resilient and sustainable food system.

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Note:?This article provides a general overview and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should conduct thorough due diligence and consult with financial professionals before making investment decisions.

List of Works Cited

1. The financial feasibility of producing fish and vegetables through aquaponics

A venture producing 1250 kg fish, 6000 kg lettuce, and 300 kg tomato per year in the Philippines using aquaponics would have a Net-Benefit-Cost Ratio of below 1.3 after 20 years.

Bosma, R., Lacambra, L., Landstra, Y., Perini, C., Poulie, J., Schwaner, M., & Yin, Y. (2017). The financial feasibility of producing fish and vegetables through aquaponics.?Aquacultural Engineering, 78, 146-154.?https://doi.org/10.1016/J.AQUAENG.2017.07.002.

2.?Improving water management in European catfish recirculatig aquaculture systems through catfish-lettuce aquaponics.

Aquaponics in a circular, closed loop farm can reduce water input by 50 Lday-1 and increase the RAS water output from 555 to 103 Lday-1.? Calone, R., Pennisi, G., Pennisi, G., Morgenstern, R., Sanyé‐Mengual, E., Lorleberg, W., Dapprich, P., Winkler, P., Orsini, F., & Gianquinto, G. (2019). Improving water management in European catfish recirculating aquaculture systems through catfish-lettuce aquaponics..?The Science of the total environment, 687, 759-767 . https://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2019.06.167.

3. Designing Aquaponic Production Systems towards Integration into Greenhouse Farming

Aquaponics in a circular, closed loop farm can diversify the current business model, providing extra income from fish and using effluent as fertilizer for plants.

Danner, R., Mankasingh, U., Anamthawat-Jónsson, K., amp; Thorarinsdottir, R. (2019). Designing Aquaponic Production Systems towards Integration into Greenhouse Farming.nbsp;Water.nbsp;https://doi.org/10.3390/w11102123.

4.Monetizing environmental impact of integrated aquaponic farming compared to separate systems.

Aquaponics in a circular, closed loop farm impacts the environment with a cost of 10,700 EUR annually, about half the environmental cost of separate production of the same produce.

Greenfeld, A., Becker, N., Bornman, J., Spatari, S., & Angel, D. (2021). Monetizing environmental impact of integrated aquaponic farming compared to separate systems..?The Science of the total environment, 792, 148459 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148459.

5.?Challenges of Sustainable and Commercial Aquaponics

Aquaponics can contribute to addressing food security problems and be an important driver for integrated food production systems, particularly benefiting arid regions with water stress.

Goddek, S., Delaide, B., Mankasingh, U., Ragnarsdóttir, K., Jijakli, H., amp; Thorarinsdottir, R. (2015). Challenges of Sustainable and Commercial Aquaponics.nbsp;Sustainability, 7, 4199-4224.nbsp;https://doi.org/10.3390/SU7044199.

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6. A Forefront Framework for Sustainable Aquaponics Modeling and Design

Aquaponics is a closed-loop system that produces aquatic animals and plants using recirculated water and nutrients, offering high environmental and socio-economic advantages.

Danish, M., Senjyu, T., Sabory, N., Khosravy, M., Grilli, M., Mikhaylov, A., amp; Majidi, H. (2021). A Forefront Framework for Sustainable Aquaponics Modeling and Design.nbsp;Sustainability.nbsp;https://doi.org/10.3390/su13169313.

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7. Combating Food Insecurity with Large Scale Aquaponics: A Case Study in Silicon Valley

Aquaponics in a circular, closed-loop farm can increase produce yield, meal nutrition, and significantly reduce water usage compared to traditional farming.

Albright-Borden, R., Nelken, P., Sparagana, S., Thompson, S., Wang, J., Doyle, L., Lee, H., Parker, M., amp; Wilson, S. (2019). Combating Food Insecurity with Large Scale Aquaponics: A Case Study in Silicon Valley.nbsp;2019 IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference (GHTC), 15.nbsp;https://doi.org/10.1109/GHTC46095.2019.9033047.

improve the efficiency and sustainability of the current farm.

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8. Aquaponics: a positive impact circular economy approach TO feeding cities

Aquaponics in a circular, closed loop farm produces minimal waste, requires limited energy inputs, and provides city consumers with year-round access to quality, locally sourced products.

Beckers, S. (2019). Aquaponics: a positive impact circular economy approach TO feeding cities.Field Actions Science Reports. The journal of field actions, 78-84.

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9. Strategic Points in Aquaponics

Aquaponics, a closed-loop system, combines recirculation aquaculture systems and hydroponics, addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. Junge, R., K?nig, B., Villarroel, M., K?míves, T., amp; Jijakli, M. (2017). Strategic Points in Aquaponics.nbsp;Water, 9, 182. https://doi.org/10.3390/W9030182.nbsp;nbsp;

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10. Decarbonizing Aquatic Food Production Through Circular Bioeconomy of Aquaponic Systems

Aquaponics is a sustainable aquatic food production system with a low-carbon, carbon neutral, or carbon negative method, addressing environmental concerns.

Estim, A., Shapawi, R., Shaleh, S., Saufie, S., & Mustafa, S. (2022). Decarbonizing Aquatic Food Production Through Circular Bioeconomy of Aquaponic Systems.?Aquaculture Studies. https://doi.org/10.4194/aquast963.