Bio hub green design challange

BIO HUB

Created by: Joseph Glesta Melissa Wartman

Created For: DSUSO 2013 Go Green Campus Challenge

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Edward Edelstein from Eco-­‐Green Homes for his time and help with budgeting out this project. We would also like to acknowledge Kerrie Green for all her help with the Auto CAD drawings for the BIO HUB. Finally thanks to Maxime Lapierre for assisting with Photoshop help.

Introduction

The BIO HUB is a concept based on the promotion of sustainability on Dalhousie’s campus. This facility will be a centerpiece that embraces the knowledge gained from the programs offered at Dalhousie. The programs include agriculture, sustainability and marine biology. These programs overlap in many ways. This enables a multidisciplinary vision towards food security and other similar issues. These programs are significant in maintaining our environment by coinciding with methods of cultivating our societies future food sources. Thus, it is our inspiration to create an aquaponics facility that would act as a “Hub” for sustainability on campus. This facility would provide fresh vegetables and herbs year round. It will also showcase the importance of small projects and their large impacts on communities.

Aquaponics Aquaponics is a method of cultivating both crops and fish in a controlled environment. The fish are kept in tanks, and the plants are grown hydroponically, meaning without soil. The plants sit in beds, but their roots hang down into a tub of water. When fish live in tanks, their waste builds up in the water and it eventually becomes poisonous to them. However, what is seemingly toxic for fish is nourishing for plants.

The fish and plants are dependent on the balance of dissolved nutrients and quality of the water, as they generate and utilize metabolic products from each other. It is this unique balance that leads to healthy animals and a productive crop. A group of bacteria known as nitrifiers transform toxic ammonia into nitrite and then to nitrate via biochemical oxidation. The less toxic nitrate is the final end product that plants take up as fertilizer. As the plants absorb the nutrients they need from the water, they cleanse the water of toxins making it suitable to recycle back to the fish.

This method of farming fish and crops is advantageous on several different levels: 1. It removes fertilizer and chemicals (e.g. pesticides or herbicides) from the agricultural process. The fish waste acts as a natural fertilizer for the crops instead.

2. It saves water because the water is recycled within the tanks rather than sprayed across a bed of crops with waste.

3. An aquaponics environment can be set up anywhere; therefore it reduces the need for local communities to import fish and crops from other countries.

4. It has the potential to use no fossil fuels and be completely off the grid. Not only does it preserve non-renewable energy resources such as soil and water but it will improve the sustainability on the campus by providing:

• • •

Fresh herbs and vegetables to campus food providers such as the Loaded Ladle.

Spread awareness of urban farming techniques and sustainable practices.

A reason for multiple programs to conglomerate over a sustainable issue such as food security.

Water from a fish tank is pumped over the grow beds. We would use media beds in our grow house. These types of beds are the simplest form of aquaponics as they are simply containers filled with hydroton. This style of system can be run two different ways: with a continuous flow of water over the beds, or by flooding and draining the grow beds.

We have found that tilapia would be the best fish to use because it is highly resistant and can be maintained in confined spaces for a prolonged period of time. These fish are resistant to temperatures spanning from 10oC to 35oC. Not only are tilapia highly adaptable species but they also feed on algae, therefore reducing the cost of tilapia farming and pressures on wild prey species that are used for aquaculture feed.

Figure 1. Tilapia would be used to stock the fish tank. Image taken from:

http://fishhut.blogspot.ca/2012/07/tilapia-fishing.html.

Significance of Project

We believe the BIO HUB is needed because the Dalhousie campus is home to The College of Sustainability. However, there are limited green initiatives visible to the student population on the campus that shows the significance of sustainability to our school. The BIO HUB will illuminate our intentions by boldly displaying a beautiful, living aquaponics center that will showcase fresh vegetables and live fish that are maintained by students at Dalhousie. This will also create awareness for campus food security and future related issues, because small scale farming such as aquaponics will be a likely method for maintaining a healthy livable world in the future. As a leader in sustainability, it is Dalhousie’s responsibility to put forth progressive ideas and

initiatives. This project allows students and faculty from different departments to come together and work towards a common goal.

In a short-term role, this BIO HUB could be useful as a learning foundation and act as a sustainable pillar for the campus. In the long-term, it can be utilized to supply restaurants or kitchens around the campus with fresh herbs and vegetables creating an income for the BIO HUB to be maintained. A student run society could be created around the BIO HUB as well, so that students learn how to run an aquaponics center and get experience working with green initiatives. We believe this project could truly benefit the school as a whole. The BIO HUB could very well, be one of the stepping-stones towards a greener Dalhousie.

Building Design The design of the BIO HUB is based around functionality and self-sufficiency.

The preliminary design was based from passive solar greenhouses, which we find to be a highly simple and functional design (See Appendix 1). We then took this basic design and enhanced it by including room for a water tank to house the fish, and further updated the design to be aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.

The design includes a large window area for passive solar heating, which will allow for south facing light to be directed towards the plants and allow for natural heating during the winter. This will almost eliminate the need for a heating system, although we will have one to ensure that cold winters do not freeze the crop or fish. Solar panel fixtures will allow for solar energy to be captured year round to either run a ventilation fan or heater dependent on weather. The solar panel will also run the pump system, which will ensure the flow of water from the fish tank to the plants and visa versa.

Views and Perspectives

E3

E2

E4

E1 Topographic View - Scale 1/4” : 1’

Elevation 1 - Scale 1/4” : 1’

Elevation 2 - Scale 1/4” : 1’

Aquaponics Setup We have based or aquaponics setup on a recirculating system (Figure 2).

Recirculating systems generally recycle 90 to 99 percent of the cultured water daily. The system would function by pumping water from the fish tank to the, PVC pipes which would disperse water over the grow beds, the water would then filter from the media beds down to a collection pipe, that would be then filtered by gravity back to the fish tanks.

Figure 2. The recirculating system setup that would be used for the BIO HUB. Image taken from: http://splurgebook.wordpress.com.

Determining the weight of fish that can be kept in an aquaponics tank will be dependent on the following factors: the size of the tank, the size of the fish, the species of fish, the feeding rate, the water flow rate, the dissolved oxygen levels, the effectiveness of solids removal devices, and the bio-filtration capacity of the system.

The complex inter-relationship between fish, plants and bacteria impact the water chemistry and are major reasons for periodically monitoring them, particularly when things appear “out of kilter”. Start-up systems (at initial stocking of plants and fish) should be tested daily, so adjustments can be made as soon as possible (e.g. decrease feeding, increase aeration, water exchange). After the nutrient cycles are relatively balanced and a sufficient bacteria population has developed (minimum of 4 weeks), weekly monitoring may be appropriate. This testing can be done conveniently here at Dalhousie, because the Oceanography Department is equipped with the systems and probes for measuring pH, dissolved oxygen, and various nutrient levels.

Placement The placement of the BIO HUB is essential to its success. Therefore, we have decided on three different locations to potentially place the BIO HUB. Each location is based on either visibility, feasibility and functionality. The BIO HUB can be placed in front of the Killam library (the green space), on top of the Student Union Building (SUB) or the area behind the Computer Science (CS), which is already designated for a small greenhouse project.

Placing the BIO HUB in front of the Killam library would provide high visibility so that it is not just another building, but an attraction. People can peer into the facility and see for themselves, where and how food is being grown. This will not only spark public interest but also provide a local connection to the project. It will also showcase sustainability on campus by presenting our progressive stance on sustainability at our school.

The CS location provides an optimal position for full south facing sunlight, which enables the building to get maximum sunlight and operate functionally year round.

Based upon the plans that the DSU has now to create a greenhouse, our project could be worked into this design. We would be able to construct a more permanent structure, which would either be larger, or remain the same size as the previous generation of greenhouse.

If we were to place the facility on top of the SUB roof, we could use the steam ducts to naturally heat the facility and connect off of an existing power grid, to reduce cost and increase the thermal retention in the winter, passively. This would also allow for restaurants in the SUB to use the facility with better ease.

Implementation Eco-Green Homes Ltd. has provided us with an estimate and has shown interest in completing the project if it were to be implemented. Eco-Green Homes Ltd focus has been on ecologically responsible building methods, use of energy saving and healthenhancing design principles, and the use of innovative methods and materials. Current estimates by Eco-Green Homes head architect, Edward Edelstein place this project estimated between $35,000 to $40,000.

The most expensive part of this project would be labour and materials, however because it is not an extensive build and it is on a small scale with all of the resources available locally, the costs could be lowered. Another way to lower costs and access free labour would be, to include the community by gathering volunteers. The solar elements, panels, temperature control, etc. are all subsidized by efficiency Nova Scotia, and are also available locally.

Item

Quantity

4mm Greenhouse Polycarbonate 1220mm x 610mm (10-pack)

Unit Price ($)

Total Price $180.00

Source

3

60

Makrolon

Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) 12- 1/2" x 48" x 96"

30

158.84

$4,765.20

TheSIPstore.com

Bevel Siding (12ft)

125

9.75

$1,218.75

Home Depot

Galvanized Steel Corrugated Roof Panel (8ft x 4ft)

10

10.5

$105.00

Home Depot

Rapid Set Foundation Cement All 55lb. Multi-Purpose

25

18.5

$462.50

Home Depot

Standard/Better Kiln Dried Dimensional Lumber (2x4x10')

50

4.25

$212.50

Home Depot

Misc. (Screws, glue, stain, extras)

n/a

n/a

$1,000.00

Home Depot

Labour (5-person crew-4 weeks)

5

175

$17,500.00

Eco-Green Homes

Contract

$10,000.00

Eco-Green Homes

Total Building Costs

$35,443.95

The project can be implemented in more then one way, in order to either expand the project or minimalize it, which allows us to facilitate a wider arrange of options. It is our intention to make this project as feasible as possible and thus providing a minimalistic form of our vision does not hinder our goal or undercut our concept. It is however, enabling a range of ways to improvise and accommodate any given factor to sustain achievability.

Research completed by James Rakocy, PhD, and associates at the University of the Virgin Islands concluded that the production of basil in aquaponics facilities were particularly high. Their research determined at $22 per kilogram, the average sales would provide $515 a year per cubic meter of basil. Income for the aquaponics facility will be dependent on the produce that is grown. Several other studies have shown that operating costs to upkeep the aquaponics was largely based on labour wages (approximately 70%), where as maintenance accounted for only 10%. We believe that this aquaponics facility can draw in students as volunteers, which will lower the operating costs substantially.

Materials Ø

Building

§

Insulated foundation: made of cement, 4-inch minimum layer for heat absorption and thermal retention.

Polycarbonate glazing: a difficult to break, lightweight glass alternative that is user-friendly, doesn’t burn the plants, and is guaranteed for ten years against yellowing, even at high altitudes.

The building is made from structurally insulated panels (SIPs). These prefabricated panels consist of an insulating layer (Styrofoam) sandwiched between two layers of structural board. They are mold and rot proof, which is very

§

§

§

important in humid environments. These panels are fire proof and do not off-gas.

They are highly insulated with an average R-value of 25 and because the panels are pre-fabricated it the building could be erected in a much shorter time period.

Active solar fan and vent: uses the sun to run the ventilation system (augmented by human operated vents). The size, placement, and number of vents can be customized to fit your heat and humidity profile. Two solar panels have been assessed for use: one to be used for the pump, the other for heating and/or fan control.

Ø

Aquaponics System

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75-100 gallon Fiberglass Fish Tank 25 gallon Radial Filter 4 x 110 gallon Grow Beds 50 gallon Sump Tank Seeds (Tomatoes, Basil, Chives, Cucumbers, Leafy Lettuce) Tilapia fingerlings (Purchased from Future Nets and Supplies Ltd.)

To keep this project as sustainable as possible we believe that buying used items as much as possible is important. That is why looking for auqaponics system supplies, we searched on kijiji.ca. Estimated cost approximation was derived from searches on kijiji and other local stores around the HRM area. Cost approximations came to $2,500 (Please see the appendix 2 for break down of material and individual costing for each item).

Conclusions The desired outcome of this initiative is to create a multidisciplinary center that culminates multiple programs at Dalhousie, including marine biology, sustainability and agricultural programs. The aquaponics center will help cultivate an understanding of future urban development and urban farming methods. This sustainable center also guarantees that nothing goes to waste, and a limited carbon footprint will result from this source of food. It is our intention to create a facility that embraces sustainable practices and allows the student populace to see it in action.

References Ako, H., A. Baker. 2009. Small-Scale Lettuce Production with Hydroponics or Aquaponics. College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources. SA-2. 7pp.

Bailey, D.S., J.E. Rakocy, W.M. Cole, and K.A. Shultz. 1997. Economic analysis of a commercial-scale aquaponic system for the production of tilapia and lettuce. p.603-612. In: Proceedings from the Fourth International Symposium on Tilapia in Aquaculture. Vol. 2. Fitzsimmons, K. (Ed.). Orlando, Florida.

Chaves, P.A., R.M. Sutherland, and L.M. Laird. 1999. An economic and technical evaluation of integrating hydroponics in a recirculating fish production system.

Aquaculture Economics and Management 3: 83-91.

Diver, S. 2006. Aquaponics- Integration of ATTRA Hydroponics with Aquaculture.

National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service. 28 pp.

Goodman, E. 2005. Community and Economic Development. Arizona State University.

100 pp.

Lennard, W. 2004. Aquaponics Research at RMIT Univeristy, Melbourne Australia.Aquaponics Journal. 35: 7pp.

McMurtry, M.R., D.C. Sanders, J.D. Cure, R.G. Hodson, B.C. Haning, and P.C. St. Amand. 1997. Efficiency of water use of an integrated fish/vegetable co-culture system World Aquaculture Society 28: 420-428.

Rakocy, J.E., R.C. Shultz, D.S. Bailey, E.S. Thoman. 2004. Aquaponic production of tilapia and basil: comparing a batch and staggered cropping system. Acta Horticulturae. Pp 63-69.

Rakocy, J.E., 2005. Ten Guidelines for Aquaponics. Aquaponics Journal. 4 pp.

Rackocy, J.E., D.S. Bailey. Initial Economic Analyses of Aquaponics Systems.

University of Virgin Islands. 7 pp.

Savidov, N. 2005. Evaluation of Aquaponics Technology in Alberta, Canada.

Aquaponics Journal. 37: 6pp.

Tyson, R. 2007. Reconcliing pH for ammonia biofultration in a cucumber/tilapia aquaponics system using a perlite medium. University of Florida. 120 pp.

Wardlow, G.W., D.M. Johnson, C.L. Mueller, C.E. Hilgenberg. 2002. Enhancing Student Interest in the Agricultural Sciences through Aquaponics. J. Nat. Resour. Life Sci. Educ. 31: 55-58 pp.

Appendix 1- Passive Solar Greenhouse

Image taken from:passivesolargreenhouse.com

Key Features: § § §

§

§ § §

Polycarbonate glazing: a difficult to break, lightweight glass alternative that is userfriendly, doesn’t burn the plants, and is guaranteed for ten years against yellowing, even at high altitudes.

Super-insulated side walls and roof: uses newer, less itchy fiberglass and a foil/bubble wrap material that insulates (bounces back radiant heat), serves as a vapor barrier, and reflects light back toward the plants.

A 1,225 gallon cistern: stores and recycles rainwater (plants preferred water source), a must for rural areas that lack a (reliable) well and a safeguard against drought and water rationing in these climatically uncertain times. The size can be adjusted to fit the rainfall pattern and amount in your locale.

Passive solar water wall: 900 gallons of water in a combination of recycled white plastic and new black metal five gallon buckets. These store heat from the sun during the day (in winter) and release the heat to the air a night. In summer, the water helps keep the interior of the greenhouse cooler.

Active solar fan and vent: uses the sun to run the ventilation system (augmented by human operated vents). The size, placement, and number of vents can be customized to fit your heat and humidity profile.

Two growing beds: the interior of the greenhouse is about 35'4" long by 10' wide, or approximately 353 square feet (not including the water wall). The two beds are 4' wide and contain about 282.5 square feet of useful growing space for plants.

The design of the passive solar greenhouse can be modified to fit the specific locale by: o Adjusting the angle of the lazing wall, o Increasing or decreasing the depth of the insulated foundation, o Increasing or decreasing the size of the fan and side vents, o Using shade cloth as necessary.

Ideas from other Greenhouses: §

§

§

The building can be made from structurally insulated panels (SIPs). These prefabricated panels consist of an insulating layer (styrofoam) sandwiched between two layers of structural board. There are also some great advantages to using SIPs — they are mold and rot proof, which is very important in humid environments.

These panels are fire proof and do not off-gas. They are highly insulative with an average R-value of 25 (better than most homes).

Glazing on a greenhouse is the surface that lets the light in — usually glass or plastic sheets. Having the glazing at an angle allows us to maximize winter sun (increasing heat in the winter) and minimize the summer sun (reducing overheating in the summer). The angle of the glazing from horizontal is an important design consideration and the optimal angle depends on which part of the season you want to do most of your growing.

As a rule of thumb, to optimize the glazing angle for winter growing, take your latitude and add 15 degrees. In our case the optimal angle would have been 51 + 15, or 66 degrees. However, as long as the glazing angle is within 45 and 75 degrees you will be within 5% of optimum, therefore it often makes more sense to design the building to height restriction and material constraints vs optimal glazing angle.

Appendix 2- Aquaponics Material List Part

Cost ($)

Description

400.00

Capture solar energy to provide electricity to pumps. Found on Kijiji.ca

Bimetal Snap Disc Thermal Sensor

25.00

A switch that closes when a specific high temperature is reached and opens when a specific lower temperature is reached.

Circulation Pump

200.00

Circulates water in fish tank. Found on amazon.ca

Fish Tank

89.00

100 Gallon water tank to hold fish.

Constructed with FDA approved grade plastic

Grow Beds

300.00

2 Fiberglass tanks Found on Kijiji.ca

Sump Pump

100.00

Pumps water through the system. Found on Kijiji.ca

Vent/Fan

315.00

A1212 12� Variable Fan + one 12�

Motorized Shutter

PVC Pipe

300.00

Varying sizes

2 Solar Panels

Image

Fan Speed Control

79.00

CAP Day/Night fan speed controls

Digital Timer

25.00

7 day programmable digital timer.

100.00

Hydrotone from Sweet Leaf Smokeshop and Hydroponics (150L)

Grow Media

Total Cost

1933.00

Appendix 3- Aquaponics Setup

SWOT ANALYSIS OF AQUAPONICS