Aquaponics

Aquaponics is a “circular organic agriculture” that grows vegetables and fish simultaneously. It is a production system that references the natural ecosystem: Microorganisms decompose fish excrement, plants absorb it as nutrients, and the purified water returns to the fish tank. Using this system improves fertilizer efficiency and saves more than 80% of water compared to soil cultivation. This system is both productive and environmentally friendly because of no pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and herbicides. Aquaponics’ products are approved by the USDA (U.S. organic certification.)

This system has benefit for people who manages it; as an example, several companies in Kanagawa Prefecture has introduced this system, and employees with disabilities are capable to manage it. The vegetables grown under the aquaponics system are served for their office cafeteria. By learning and experiencing the aquaponics ecosystem, people involved to this system finds joy and feels motivated towards work. Additionally, the communication between the coworkers increased. Aquaponics can also improve our well-being.

The system of Aquaponics has a high potential to develop food circulation, distribution, and resource circulation over the conventional farming and aquaculture method. This result in promotion of local consumption.

1. Minimized resource circulation through the ecosystem

Aquaponics consists of a plant hydroponics system and a fish breeding system, and the three parties (fish, microorganisms, and plants) create one ecosystem that provides a balanced circulation system. Using such system saves more than 80% of water, 20% of electricity, and 80% of fertilizer compared to the soil cultivation. This means it minimizes the use of resources(*according to Aquponi Inc. research.) When a company installs this aquaponics system as a new business, there may have a possibility to utilize its excess production, such as an energy which may improve energy efficiencies. Addition to that, excess heat, excess water, and excess electricity can also help increase efficiency to your new aquaponics. An IT management system in aquaponics installation can record data and evaluate production status.

2. Urban agriculture promotes local consumption

The aquaponics system is available in various sizes, from medium to large. Also, it is available both outdoor and indoor so that it is possible to start from a small scale. One of the advantages of using aquaponics is that you can promote local consumption by selling fresh products produced locally for your local community.

3. Revitalizing the community through circular agriculture

People can understand the natural eco-cycle by taking care of fish and vegetables. It gives people great motivation and heals mentally and increases opportunity to interact with others. This system also provides job opportunities for people with disabilities. Therefore, aquaponics can be valuable in nursing homes and schools for both research purpose and recreation such as camping, BBQ, etc. Combining the aquaponics system with existing services creates new business opportunities and vitalizes the community.