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Albion strawberries in tropical climate: A study on water and energy consumption
Brooks, Endy
Brooks, Endy
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Keyword
Food security in SIDS
Vertical farming
Albion strawberry
Water and energy consumption
Environmental impact
Vertical farming
Albion strawberry
Water and energy consumption
Environmental impact
Location research
Aruba
Date
2024-06-30
Language
en
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Abstract
This bachelor thesis investigates the feasibility of cultivating Albion strawberries in a controlled vertical farming environment in Aruba as part of a crop diversification pilot program. This innovative approach aims to enhance food security and increase resilience by focusing on a high-value crop like Albion strawberries. The primary research question addressed is: "What is the feasibility of farming Albion strawberries in a controlled environment concerning water and energy usage within a small Island State context?" A detailed water assessment was conducted through an evapotranspiration experiment involving four Albion strawberry plants over three weeks. The results indicated fluctuations in evapotranspiration rates, with rates varying from 22.94 ml/day to 33.94 ml/day due to soil moisture dynamics and environmental conditions. Plant quality assessments, including height, leaf count, and flower development, revealed stress symptoms such as light brown patches and flower burn, attributed to inadequate relative humidity and potential nutrient imbalances. Energy consumption was closely monitored, with air conditioning accounting for 90.3% of the total energy usage. An estimated 5821.3 kg of CO2 emissions per year underscores the importance of sustainable practices in strawberry production. This research provides data on water and electricity consumption, contributing to understanding the environmental impact of indoor vertical farming. The findings highlight the challenges and potential solutions for implementing vertical farming in small Island States, emphasizing the need for optimized environmental conditions to ensure plant health and productivity.
Citation
Brooks, E. (2024). Albion strawberries in tropical climate: A study on water and energy consumption. Bachelor Dissertation. University of Aruba. 43 pages.
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University of Aruba
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URI
https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14473/1090