In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, the need for innovative solutions to address our environmental challenges is greater than ever. The Big Sustainability Awards, an event that has been running for 5 years, recognises those who are leading the way in sustainable initiatives. This year, on the 26th of October, 2023, Innovation Agritech Group (IAG) proudly took home the award for “Communicating Your Sustainability Project.”
IAG: Pioneers of Sustainable Agriculture
IAG, a British agricultural technology company, has carved a niche for itself in the realm of sustainability through its revolutionary approach to food production. The company specialises in creating advanced aeroponic vertical farming systems, and its journey of innovation began with the development of the world’s first vertical aeroponic grow panels.
IAG’s flagship technology, the GrowFrame360™, is not only a game-changer in agriculture but also an inspiration for others seeking to make a positive impact on our planet.
The GrowFrame360™: A Sustainable Breakthrough
The GrowFrame360™ is a remarkable aeroponic indoor growing system that can cultivate over 60 different crop varieties with minimal water and no need for soil or sunlight. This innovation exemplifies IAG’s commitment to sustainability and offers solutions to several pressing challenges facing the agriculture industry today.
Reducing Food Miles and Carbon Emissions
By enabling large crop yields in a small footprint, the GrowFrame360™ allows fresh produce to be grown in close proximity to end consumers in urban areas. This reduces food miles and the associated carbon emissions from transportation. The precise control over the growing environment also makes it possible to grow sensitive plants in areas with hostile climates or limited arable land, further decreasing the need for imports, and supporting local economies.
Soil and Ecosystem Preservation
The system eliminates the need for soil, pesticides, and herbicides, ensuring food production without soil degradation or ecosystem pollution. With traditional farming practices causing soil erosion and degradation at an alarming rate, the GrowFrame360™ offers a sustainable alternative that preserves fertile soil and protects ecosystems.
Water Savings
The GrowFrame360™ boasts a closed-loop aeroponic irrigation system, recycling water not absorbed by plant roots. This results in water savings of up to 98% compared to traditional outdoor farming, making a substantial contribution to global water conservation efforts.
Year-Round Harvesting
The system’s vertical configuration and advanced growing techniques enable year-round crop production, providing up to 17 harvest cycles annually compared to the 3-4 annual harvests in traditional UK farming. This high efficiency is especially beneficial in densely populated urban and suburban areas, where space is at a premium.
Above and Beyond Standard Sustainability Practice
IAG’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its innovative technology. The company is accredited by the Red Tractor and Global G.A.P. schemes, ensuring the highest standards of safety and sustainability for consumers. Additionally, IAG promotes gender equality by nurturing a diverse leadership team, with 50% women, in an industry where women are underrepresented.
The Big Sustainability Awards represent a significant milestone in the sustainability community, highlighting the dedication and ingenuity of companies and individuals working towards a greener future. Fellow category finalists, “Adveco” and “The Appliance Recycling Group“, deserve a special shoutout for their outstanding contributions to the cause. Both businesses are actively offering practical solutions to some of the biggest environmental issues, including energy and recycling and reusing waste appliances.
As winners of The Big Sustainability Awards, IAG’s commitment to sustainable agriculture offers an inspiring example for others in the industry and serves as a testament to the transformative power of innovation and dedication in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. With technology like the GrowFrame360™, a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future is within reach.
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