Interview with the Author of 'The Vertical Farm'

A Conversation with the Pioneer of Vertical Farming

Last week, an article I authored appeared on TechCrunch concerning Bowery Farming. Initially focused on a well-funded New York-based company, the discussion broadened to encompass the burgeoning field of vertical farming and its extensive historical roots. The central aim was to evaluate the effectiveness, economic viability, and environmental sustainability of this innovative agricultural approach.

I would be remiss if I claimed to have arrived at definitive conclusions; many aspects will undoubtedly become clearer with time. However, I had the valuable opportunity to consult with numerous experts holding diverse perspectives on these matters. Among them, Dickson Despommier consistently stood out as a leading voice – often considered the originator of the vertical farming concept.

The Genesis of an Idea

It was within the framework of his Columbia University courses that the core principles of vertical farming were progressively refined over several years. His influential 2010 book, “The Vertical Farm,” has served as a cornerstone for many in the field. Last year, he released a revised edition commemorating the book’s tenth anniversary, including a new afterword reflecting on the developments of the past decade.

“When this book was initially published in 2010, vertical farms were nonexistent,” Despommier notes in the updated chapter. “Currently, the number of vertical farms has grown so significantly that I am unable to provide an exact count.”

The author has much reason for optimism. Hundreds of vertical farms are now operational globally. Both startups and governmental bodies are actively investigating this technology in response to concerns regarding climate change, population growth, and conventional farming practices. As previously highlighted in my assessment, the book functions less as a practical guide and more as a visionary exploration of potential outcomes given sufficient investment, technological advancements, and dedicated implementation.

This is the narrative Despommier intends to convey, and it’s understandable given the prevalence of discouraging news. A touch of idealistic thinking, regardless of its ultimate feasibility, can be a welcome respite.

Reflecting on the Vision

It felt fitting to revisit Despommier and re-examine the book’s concepts and aspirations as a follow-up to my review. While “The Vertical Farm” accurately predicted many aspects, it underestimated the complexities of the farms’ actual design and operation.

“I recall taking a photograph of the Apple Store on 59th Street and Central Park West with my camera,” Despommier recounts. “I envisioned the vertical farm mirroring that aesthetic. However, the reality is quite different. The primary goal is to block sunlight, as certain wavelengths can hinder plant growth. This became apparent with the advent of LED lighting, allowing us to fine-tune the spectrum – primarily red and blue, with a touch of green – and significantly enhance efficiency and growth rates.”

The current model resembles a manufacturing facility more closely than a traditional greenhouse. Large, windowless structures, often repurposed fulfillment centers, now house farms powered by LED technology instead of sunlight – the planet’s largest renewable energy source. Energy consumption remains a critical consideration for this technology.

Advocates maintain that it offers a net environmental benefit compared to conventional agriculture. However, I believe further evaluation is necessary, though emerging technologies hold promise for improvement. Despommier emphasizes the importance of technologies such as photovoltaics, water harvesting, and cross-laminated timber construction in achieving these goals.

A Symbiotic Relationship

“We aspire for cities to function as mutualistic symbionts,” Despommier explains. “This means they support the countryside without exploiting its resources. For example, in my current location, it is raining. Every building should incorporate a rainwater harvesting system into its roof, with storage capabilities. This water should be utilized for heating, cooling, sanitation, drinking, and even within the vertical farm itself.”

However, realizing this vision requires more than just a startup-driven, capitalist approach. Governments must actively promote these technologies to mitigate the unavoidable consequences of human-induced climate change.

“The United States Department of Agriculture has already held five or six regional meetings on vertical farming,” he states. “I participated in two of those in Washington, DC, attended by high-ranking officials. Participants were free to express their opinions, whether supportive or skeptical. Both perspectives were voiced simultaneously. You can now find a dedicated section on indoor farming on the USDA website.”