SELF-SUSTAINING FARM TOWN No hunger, no waste
INFRA-SPACE
LAURA GABRIELA TOTH
Content
Studio 1
Studio 2
Studio 3
2
The research highlights the problems attached to imports & exports, issues of food security in United Kingdom post Brexit; by addressing issues of food production and optimisation of this in Britain. There are opportunities to look at circular economy, minimization of food waste, improvement of people’s health and reducing the environmental impact. A new farming system employing the latest technology in order to make it as efficient and effective as possible.
3
Studio 1 Introduction
Infra - space
Infrastructure Space seeks to explore new territory, specifically the interface between digital communications, infrastructure and the production of space.
SITE The M58 corridor connects the M6 motorway to the docks at Liverpool via the A5036 through Bootle including the port itself along the A565 as far south as the Stanley Dock. CONTEXT
The M58 and the docks that are connected attach the territory to the world. The M6 motorway serves the two biggest conurbations outside of London Birmingham and Manchester. The new town of Skelmersdale was built next to the M58 deliberately. The Leeds-Liverpool canal is a hidden infrastructure that is also within this territory.
PROJECT The project is to explore the territory, site, contexts and their histories, current proposals and the contemporary legislative landscape around matters of agriculture, manufacturing and trade in a post-Covid, postBrexit world to investigate and inform the development of our own thesis questions and potential programmes.
Liverpool Railway
Leeds and Liverpool canal M58
4
SETTLEMENTS ALONG THE M58 THROUGHT TIME? SETTLEMENTS ALONG THE M58 THROUGHT TIME? SETTLEMENTS ALONG THE M58 THROUGHT TIME?
WHAT IS THE AFFECT OF THE INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE SETTLEMENTS ALONG THE M58 THROUGH TIME?
£ £ £ TIME TIMEtime TIME
LAND land LANDLAND
TECH TECH TECH tech
£
value VALUEVALUE VALUE goods
what connections can land can uncover can be understood through the through INCREMENTAL Technological what is the value ofvalue land through landcan uncover what can be through the what connections land uncover what canunderstood be understood through the what connections through INCREMENTAL Technological what is the landvalue through through INCREMENTAL Technological what isofthe of land through in regards to people, nature & time? ration of land, technology & DEVELOPMENT are we DESIGNING ecological, social & technological in regards to people, nature & time? exploration of land, technology & in regards to people, nature & time? DEVELOPMENT are we are DESIGNING exploration of land, technology & & technological DEVELOPMENT we DESIGNING ecological, social ecological, social & technological value through time? TOWARDS A FINITE POSITION BUT NEVER perspective? valuevalue through time? TOWARDS ATOWARDS FINITE POSITION NEVER BUT NEVER perspective?perspective? through time? A FINITEBUT POSITION REALISED?REALISED? REALISED?
scale scale scale WITH THE GROWTH OF AN E-SOCIETY, WILL MAJOR CITIES REMAIN HUBS FOR TECH DEVELOPMENT? AND IF SO, HOW WILL INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORT/INFLUENCE THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MOVEMENT OF PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL GOODS?
SCALE 5
United Kingdom freights Freight network
Freight transport is an essentially private sector activity which has wider economic, social and environmental impacts. Top 3 major ports, in terms of the tonnage handled in 2019, are Immingham & Grimsby, London and Liverpool; united kingdom importing and exporting yearly 23.3 million tonnes, worth £905 billion. The modes of transport have different strengths and weaknesses but for domestic freight, road is competing with rail and, to a lesser extent, coastal shipping. For international freight transport, maritime transport has the highest market share in terms of tonnage, but the air freight is used for the transport of very urgent and high-value inter-continental cargo and the Channel Tunnel fixed link competes with cross-Channel ferry services for traffic to and from the European continental mainland.
GREAT GLASGOW EDINBURGH
TYNE
The cost of road freight transport is usually relatively low compared to the value of the goods being transported. The oneway cost for a 13.6-metre trailer carrying up to 26 pallets between a distribution centre in the Midlands and the North West might be in the region of £260, which could equate to as little as £0.01 per kilogramme of goods transported.
TEESPORT & Hartlepool 28.2mt
BELFAST 18.5mt GREAT MANCHESTER LIVERPOOL 34.3mt
WEST YORKSHIRE HULL IMMINGHAM & grimsby 54.1mt
SHEFFIELD
Ports are critical to Economic Growth, but the onward connections by rail and road are equally as crucial to facilitate these international movements. Congestion and capacity issues on these networks, even away from ports, can impact on the efficiency of moving goods to markets.
NOTTINGHAM LEICESTER WEST MIDLANDS FELIXSTOWE 25.3mt
CARDIFF 9%
13%
£6.1 billion Gross Value
78%
BRISTOL
79.000 jobs
35.28% exported £365 billion 64.72% imported £540 billion
DOVER 23.4mt
SOUTHAMPTON 33.2mt
Areas 23.3mil unites 486.1mt
LONDON 54.0mt
Density of freight flow
Major built up areas/ freight hub
Above 5 million
Major port
3.5 - 5 million
Significant port in major built up area
2.5 - 3.5 million 2 - 2.5 million
2019 6
Merseyside connectivity corridors Freight corridor illustrating export routes, container movement, ro-ro & L-Lo movement, energy
Overlaying all the different trade routes and main trade hubs, the map illustrates rail and rod corridor running parallel in the majority of cases. The manufacturers operate on a ‘just in time’ bases, holding minimum amounts of materials, which helps the business to reduce costs and waste, creating a more productive and more competitive industry. This highlights more the need of good structures, fast and safe transport mode. The carrier ships may not be at the closest port, goods being moved significant distances around UK. this operational system relays on efficient hinterland connections and on-time distribution, any small delays or changes have several impacts on the factory and shipping operation.
Heysham
Tyne
Foods beverages are frequently transported in large amount, in containers, via heavy goods vertices, using Load-on Loadoff system at the ports, and Roll-on & Roll-off inland; linking up distribution centres around the country. Depending on the goods transported, the ability to deliver from and to the port in a timely and cost-effective manner are detrimental factors of the supply chain. These are just a few examples illustrating the importance of strategy connectivity between port and destination. Ports play a key role in both the import and export of products. They act as a conduit for the movement of goods and are an important part of the value-added process, as is the case for sea dredged aggregates.
Immingham
yorkshire
Liverpool
Crewe bescot
Felixstowe
Liverpool port is relatively well connected, having an operational rail connection and access to the Liverpool- Manchester shipping canal, and direct access to A5036. However, the motorway is jammed during the day, being the main path to the port and city centre. The Bootle branch line is the only rail connection to the port of Liverpool, and the Liverpool2 dock extension project would require branch line improvements and line extensions.
Bristol
London
southampton Large ports Key manufacturing/ distribution cities Energy generation cities
Rail network Strategic roads Rail freight corridor Road freight corridor
Road corridor Rail corridor 7
Brexit influence on freight
SUPPLY CHAIN
With Brexit taking place in Spring 2021, numerous discussion has been addressed towards the trade and transport of goods, as target prioritisation could exponentially improve freight network The number of goods lifted sow a decrease in both goods imported and exported during the Brexit political uncertainty. The 6% fall could be interpreted in this political context, businesses looking to transport internationally in response to the Brexit preparation. As part of the EU, the UK has benefited from the free trade market that exists between the 28 member states. This benefit will be lost on leaving the EU, resulting in an increase in trade tariffs and more complex customs procedures. This could cause a reduction in UK/EU trade volume, negatively affecting the shipping industry. However, with new global trade deals set to enter negotiation post-Brexit, Liverpool2 is a good example of what United Kingdom have to offer the logistics industry worldwide, enabling the port to trade with America, India and Far East. There are possible positive impacts, concentrating towards local food production and manufacturing, a customer based delivery, and trade with countries outside the EU restrictions.
Agricultural production
Manufacturing
Imports & exports
Many industries will be affected by Brexit
38% non-UK work force
63% meat industry personnel from EU
50% extorts of total agrifood production
Possible positive beneficial impacts
Increase in regional food production
Businesses can increase customer base deliver
With the removal of the EU import restrictions, possibility to source from non EU sources
8
Sustainable freight LONG DISTANCE
Sustainable growth Lower cost of driving electric vans and zero emission road and rail freight may support economic growth with lower environmental impacts, which will be essential to meeting the UK’s climate change targets. Road and rail freight transport is responsible for nine percent of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions. Competitiveness Zero emission HGVs and vans could have lower operational costs, possibly reducing the costs of freight transport and supporting the UK’s competitiveness and productivity. To reduce the internal port operational cost and environmental impacts, ships could be powering using ofshore liquid natural gas, rather than on board engines while docked at a port. However, infrastructure to support liquid natural gas (LNG) is very capitalintensive, with a long payback period. This necessitates certainty of energy policy and LNG supply into the medium term. As such, the government’s energy policy is of fundamental importance to the northern ports. recent changes in the government’s energy policy have already had significant negative effects upon the ports. Prior to the recent implementation of the Contracts for Difference mechanism for funding renewable energy projects, ports complained of a lack of clarity in how incentives for renewables investment would be ensured in the long term. A modal shift from road to rail and coastal shipping would further reduce the co2 emission and create more sustainable transport. While significant infrastructure investment is required to alleviate the North’s capacity and efficiency problems, a modal shift also requires changes to the grant structures that incentivise freight providers to use particular transport modes. Developing rail- or water-connected multimodal distribution parks, would minims the cost of onward distribution by road, enabling sustainable access to employment and futureproofing for the potential longer-term introduction of low/zero carbon ‘last mile’ distribution solutions.
OFFSHORE
INLAND
ZERO EMISSION SHIPPING
SHORT SEA
PASSENGER
FERRIES
Electric train
Zero emission Heavy Weight Vehicles & vans
Rail reduces Co2 emission by
76% compared to road
CO2
9%
Ofshore Ship power with Liquid Natural Gas
of uk greenhouse gas is produced by rail and road transport
9
Studio 2 STUDIO 1
£ time
land
tech
value
goods
SOCIAL
FOOD COMMODITIES
STUDIO 2
AGRICULTURE
FARMING
How does agricultures look in the future? How can productivity maximized while waste and pollution is minimised?
How is Brexit influencing food industry in the United Kingdom?
How can food shortage be eliminated?
How can food shortage be eliminated?
How can productivity maximized while waste and pollution is minimised?
How can agriculture influence the social life?
How can a community be selfsustaining?
10
Introduction
SITE The M58 corridor which connects Liverpool docks with M6 motorway. CONTEXT Studio 1 revealed gaps in the transportation system and the long mileage required for good to reach customers, impacting the environment and time. In particular, the supply chain was affected by Brexit, with like possibility to increase the food price, and create shortage due no-deal and pandemic context. The virus affected inhabitance economy, numerous not having access to sufficient food. PROJECT This project is to explore the food movement conditions in the social, land, value, and technological context to achieve a self-sufficient community. The aim is to explore the limitations and possibilities of agriculture and food production in Post Brexit and Covid society.
Boundary M58
11
Brexit impact on food exchange In the United Kingdom, freight transport is a private sector activity which has wider economic, social and environmental impacts. With Brexit taking place in Spring 2021, numerous discussions have been addressed on the topic of trade and transport of goods, as target prioritisation could exponentially improve freight network in the United Kingdom. As part of the European Union, the UK has benefited from the free trade market that exists between the 28 state members. This benefit will be lost after leaving the EU, resulting in an increase in trade tariffs and more complex custom procedures. This could cause a reduction in the UK/EU trade volume, negatively impacting the shipping industry.
79% EU import
9% via bilateral agreements
12% other
The impact will vary across a different range of products and depends on factors such as how dependent the UK is on imports of that item rather than domestic supply, and the import tariffs that will be applied. The government confidence in the food industry is not shared by the industry itself. In October, the chair of Tesco warned of fresh food shortages for “a few weeks, possibly a few months” after 1 January. The UK imports 62% of its fresh food, much of it from Europe. UK relays on European trade for a critical portion of many vegetables and fruits. In the dead of winter, with trucks stuck at the border, possible tariffs, a weaker pound and no warehouse space, the price of fresh produce could go through the roof. If you can find it at all. The largest manufacturing sector in the country is food and drink, and they are one of the largest retail sector employers, with over 410,000 workers. Brexit impacted on food storage, numerous restaurants, fast foods, and shops trying to stock up before the country is leaving the union. However, numerous perishable fruits and vegetables cannot be stored, 85% of these being imported from the EU. During the winter and spring seasons, Britain is dependent on fresh fruit and vegetable imported from warmer climates.
More paperwork
5% Trade traffic jam
A survey by the UK Warehousing Association found that there is less than 3% spare capacity nationwide. Most of this consists of small corners, useless for major wholesalers. The association believes “the situation will quickly become critical”. While the government has spent £1.4bn this year on border arrangements that would usually be made by the private sector, it has done nothing to ensure there is sufficient storage space, or that food is prioritised. Such issues, it believes, are best left to business. Under a schedule of traffics, approximately 85% of food imported from the EU will face traffic of more than 5%. Similarly, a study by researchers at Imperial College London has found that extra few minutes spent at the control points would impact the traffic at peak time with nearly five hours traffic delay. There are possible positive impacts, concentrating on local food production and manufacturing, a customer-based delivery, and trade with countries outside the EU restrictions. Based on the farm-gate value of unprocessed food in 2019, the UK supplied just over half (55%) of the food consumed in the UK.
Economic imbalance
Food shortage 12
Food imports sand exports In 2019, exports rose by 4.3% on the previous year, reaching a total of £23.6 billion. The UK is now exporting 8.7% more (in value terms) to non-EU countries. Despite that the country used 17,5 million hectares for farming in 2019, the amount of meat and vegetables import is very large. While overall food and drink exports to the EU saw positive growth last year, branded goods exports declined. All of the UK’s top 10 markets for branded goods within the EU saw a decline over 2019, reinforcing anecdotal evidence that key buyers were starting to look elsewhere due to Brexit uncertainty. The Northern regions of England (North East, North West, and Yorkshire and the Humber) account for approximately 15% of the UK’s food and drink exports. While the majority of regions saw export value growth in 2019, food and drink continues to be one of the lower value export sectors. According to a new research, the majority of consumers would be willing to pay more for food they knew had been produced in the UK.
Exports 2019
Imports 2019
Beverages
Beverages
Diary products
Meat and edible meat offal
Meat and edible meat offal
Bakery products
Bakery products
Diary products
Fresh vegetables
Fresh vegetables
£47.9 b
£23.6 b
food, feed and drink exports
food, feed and drink imports
The research, conducted by food buying company Beacon amongst over 2,000 consumers, found that a quarter would be willing to spend as much as 25% more for food if they knew it contained British produce, with some even prepared to spend up to 50%. The research found that in some cases, UK-based food producers were facing price hikes of up to 33%, largely caused by soaring import costs following Brexit votes.
1/4 people choose UK products
17,5 mil ha
utilised agricultural area
The importance of British produce was most prevalent amongst young people, with two thirds of 25 to 34 year old revealing they’d be happy to pay more for British produces and food. One of the largest discrepancy between import and export is between the exported (195,977) fresh vegetables and imported (1,930,341). Despite that the country used 17,5 million hectares for farming in 2019, the amount of meat and vegetables import is very large.
Fresh vegetables exported (£195,977)
Fresh vegetables imported (£1,930,341) references: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/food-statistics-pocketbook/food-statistics-in-your-pocket-food-chain https://www.fdf.org.uk/exports-2019-q4.aspx#item1
13
United Kingdom farming
National
Based on the farm-gate value of unprocessed food in 2019, the UK supplied just over half (55%) of the food consumed in the UK. The leading foreign supplier of food consumed in the UK were countries from the EU (26%). Africa, Asia, North and South America each provided a 4% share of the food consumed in the UK. The three largest value imported commodity groups (at 2019 prices) were fruit & vegetables, meat and beverages. Domestic production of fresh fruit as a percentage of total new supply for use in the UK fell to 16% in 2019 from 17% in 2018. Income from Farming is estimated to have risen between 2018 and 2019 by 6.2% (£309 million) in real terms after adjustment for the effect of inflation, to £5.3 billion. The North West region investigates were Cumbria, Chester, Lancashire, Blackburn, Great Manchester, Merseyside, Wirral, Halton and Warrington. The average farm size in 2018 was 78 hectares. This is smaller than the English average of 86 hectares. Total Income from Farming decreased by 54% between 2014 and 2018 to £108 million.
Vegetables Oats
1st
EU producer of sheep (24 m)
3rd
EU producer of cattle (9.5 m)
Wheat
Rapes Potatoes Barley
Regional Vegetables Oats
Rapes Wheat
Potatoes
£5.3 billion farming income
7th
EU cereal producer (9m ha)
Barley
£108 million farming income
33,098 NW labour force
981 thousand hectares total agricultural land
~4 million total labour force in food industry
18,8 million hectares total agricultural land
14
Agriculture in the United Kingdom Value: £3,667 million Domestic production as a percentage of total new supply to the UK for all fresh vegetables was 53% compared to 54% in 2018. Domestic production of fresh fruit as a percentage of total new supply for use in the UK fell to 16% in 2019 from 17% in 2018.
96% for UK use
EU exports: 2,793 thousands tonnes
Within England nearly half of all organic land falls within the South West region. The organically farmed area represents 2.7% of the total farmed area on agricultural holdings.
219 agricultural
17,652 thousand hectares area on holdings
holdings
64,000 hectares average croppable area
Area: 4,211 thousand hectares
Domestic use: 24,051 t
Agriculture typically has an aging workforce. In the United Kingdom, around a third of all holders were over the typical retirement age of 65 years while the proportion of young people aged less than 35 years was around 3%.
81,000 hectares average area
CEREALS
Non-EU exports: 377 thousand tonnes
53% for UK use
FRESH VEGETABLES
6,132 thousand hectares croppable area
Value: £1,481 million Area: 115 thousand hectares Grown in open: 115.thousand ha Organic farming: 485,000 ha
EU exports: 120 thousands tonnes
467 thousands
total labour force
60 media holders age
Non-EU exports: 21 thousand tonnes
3,000 under 35 year
144,000 full time
299,000 farmers, business partners, directors and spouses
155,000 part time 16% for UK use
177,000 regular employees, salaried managers & casual workers
FRESH FRUITS
Value: £875 million Area: 35 thousand hectares Orchard fruit: 24,000 ha
EU exports: 158 thousands tonnes
£ 57,000 cereal farm
£ 99,000
general cropping
£ 48,000 mixed farm
Non-EU exports: 3 thousand tonnes
15
Land use
There are no connections between food banks and constrained/ hard pressed living; between factories and field, or cereal crops with mills.
Boundary M58 Food production factories Windmill Food banks Golf Courses Urbanities Suburbanites Rural dwellers Multicultural metropolitans Constrained city dwellers Hard-pressed living Winter wheat Spring wheat Winter barley Spring barley Winter oats Field beans Potatoes Oilseed rape Maize Other crops Grassland Green belt 16
How can transportation be minimised and food production maximized?
Locally sourced vegetables
Post Brexit & Covid19 society
Technological advancement
Create a system to support locally sourced seasonal vegetables to reduce the import and create a self-sustainable community.
Post brexit-covid19 several changes will be occur at the society level. More home work balance, food safety will be important, there are opportunities to use national agricultural products.
The tech advancement allows growing numerous plants in a controlled environment and artificial climate, making available vegetables and fruits which were not possible to grow due to the climate unsuitability.
17
Benefits of locally sourced food
Farmers who sell directly to consumers do not need to focus on packing, shipping and issues regarding shelf life. Instead, they can focus on the quality of their produce and prioritize freshness, nutrition and taste, with minimal use of chemicals and pesticides. Seasonal food supports what the body needs, for example, summer foods such as stone fruits help protect against sun damage, winter vegetables are good for warming healthy stews and soups.
Health
Biodiversity
Support farmers
Preserve farmland
Social
Transportation
Our food may travel thousands of miles before it ends up on our tables. That can mean high delivery costs and increased CO2 emissions due to transportation from where food is grown and harvested, packaged, and sold. There is also a large amount of energy used to store the food along the route, in the store and in homes. Buying locally-grown drastically shortens the amount of needed food travel.
Small, local farms grow a variety of fruits and vegetables, while larger corporate farms grow less variety and usually focus on only one crop. Having variety in your crops is an important sustainability practice, as it protects against diseases, creates balance and protects the biodiversity of the land and soil. Additionally, it preserves a large agricultural gene pool, which is important for the long-term life of crops.
Buying local food supports people in the community. Farmers often only receive a portion of the money made on their crops. Their profits go to a variety of external sources such as transportation, processing, packaging, refrigeration and marketing. Farmers who sell directly to local consumers receive a fuller monetary value for their produce.
The environmental question of where your food comes from is bigger than its carbon footprint. By buying foods grown and raised close to where you live, you help maintain farmland and green space in your area.
Knowing where your food is from connects you to the people who raise and grow it. Instead of having a single relationship with a big supermarket, you develop smaller connections to more food sources. All of the sudden, you know vendors at the farmers market, the buying manager at the local cheese shop, the butcher at your favorite meat counter, the workers at the co-op that sells local eggs, the roaster, and barista at the local café. For some people, the benefit of this is social and psychological. The impact on the environment is, for some, the number one reason to buy local. Using produce that is grown or reared in the UK on local farms reduces the number of ‘food miles’ and brings down the associated CO2 emissions. There is less transportation, refrigeration and fewer hot houses, all of which helps to reduce air pollution. Not only is it environmentally friendly, using seasonal produce supports regional farms and communities, helping to grow the local economy. 18
Environment impact As well as being vital for food production, agriculture helps to shape the landscape, providing important recreational, spiritual and other cultural benefits. This can be viewed in terms of delivering vital ecosystems services, with food production being a provisioning service whilst other environmental and societal benefits are delivered by, for example, cultural and regulating services. Agricultural production and the associated land use and management are key drivers of the environmental impacts from the sector. A key challenge is to decouple production from environmental impact so that production can be increased whilst reducing the overall environmental footprint. This is sometimes referred to as sustainable intensification.
11% decrease of methane emission since 2018
contributes less than 1% to the UK economy
AGRICULTURE
provides 3/4 of the indigenous consumed food
12% decrease of nitrous oxide emission 50% decrease bird index on farmland since 1970
70% predominat form of land use
fertilisers and pesticides pollute air, water, soil, humans and animals
Farm practices and the use of inputs (particularly fertilisers and pesticides) directly influence the environmental pressures from farming including the quality, composition and availability of habitats and impact on air, water and soils. Plant protection products are used to regulate growth and to manage pests and diseases in crops. They play a major role in maintaining high crop yields and therefore greater production from agricultural land. However, they can have detrimental impacts on the environment, particularly on terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity. Agriculture contributes to the pollution of water bodies through fertilisers and manure (nutrients), pesticides, sediments and faecal bacteria. Rainfall may wash a proportion of fertiliser off fields into local water bodies or cause soluble nutrients to filter into groundwater. Pesticides can be washed into water bodies by rainwater or may enter them directly if sprayed close to water. Pesticides can also enter groundwater via soil infiltration. In addition, erosion can wash topsoil into water bodies and these soils can carry large amounts of phosphates and agri-chemicals bonded to clay particles. Agriculture provides valuable resources in terms of winter food, spring forage and nesting habitats for farmland bird populations. The largest declines in farmland bird populations occurred between the late 1970s and early 1990s due to the impact of rapid changes in farmland management. Whilst agrienvironment schemes offer specific measures designed to help stabilise and recover farmland bird populations, the situation is complex with other pressures such as weather effects and disease pressures adversely impacting on some species.
Globally, food industry environmental impact Greenhouse gas
Land use
Freshwater use
Biodiversity 22%
30% 50% 74%
78% 70% 50% 26%
Non-food
Forest, urban area, freshwater
Industry & households
Wild animals
Food
Agriculture
Agriculture
Livestock 19
Traditional agriculture
Vertical farming
80% LAND arable land already
IN USE
0% LAND 0.4 ha vertical farming
4-8 ha landbased traditional farm depending on crop
50% NOT HARVESTED
90% HARVESTED
70% GLOBAL
70-95% LESS
of crops planted are
FRESH WATER USED FOR SOIL-BASED FARMING 50-80% of water is lost to evaporation and runoff
FOOD DISTANCE On average food travels from 2,400 to 4,800 kilometre on its way to the customers
of crops planted are
FRESH WATER USED FOR SOIL-BASED FARMING Using special technology for indoor farming (aquaponics or aeroponics)
LOCALLY SOURCED Sourcing locally plants reduced the transport distance, fuel and CO2, and ensures freshness and quality
20
Advanced agricultural technology
BIOTECHNOLOGY genetic engineering has made it possible to grow crops in places where was not possible, and adapt different crops to climates
EFFICIENCY
SOLVES LABOUR SHORTAGE
ACCURACY
AUTOPILOT TRACTOR GPS tractors, combines, sprayers and more can accurately drive themselves through the field
PRODUCTIVITY
PRESERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES
REDUCTION OF PESTICIDES AND RUNOFF SWATCH CONTROL AND VARIABLE RATE TECHNOLOGY the farmer is controlling the size of the swath, a given piece of equipment takes through the field
ROBOTICS: CARBON NEUTRAL OPPORTUNITY
TELEMATICS this technology allows equipment to talk to farmers, and even other equipment
8
seconds
8
acres
To pick a single strawberry plant
Picked by a single harvester in a day
1.5
seconds To move on to the next plant
30+ pickerss
IRRIGATION VIA SMARTPHONE farmer can control irrigation systems from a phone or computer instead of driving to each field
CROP SENSOR
Replaced by a single harvester
A strawberry picking robot will save farmers money on labour, improve the quality of berries picked, reduce energy usage, and increase strawberry yields.
help farmers apply fertilizer in a very effective manner, maximizing uptake and reducing potential leaching and runoff into ground water 21
The benefits of Smart Agriculture
INCREASES PRODUCTION
REAL-TIME DATA & PRODUCTION INFORMATION
IMPROVED QUALITY
LOWER WATER CONSUMPTION
Optimised planting, treatment application and harvesting improve yields
Real-time access to information about soil moisture, sunlight intensity, markets and more, provides for better and faster decision making for farmers.
Accurate information about production processes and quality helps farmers adjust and increase the specificities of the products as well as nutritional value.
Lover water consumption due to soil moisture sensors and more accurate weather forecasting.
LOWER PRODUCTION COSTS
ACCURATE FARM AND FIELD EVALUATION
REDUCED ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND CLIMATE FOOTPRINT
Better resource efficiency through automatised processes in crop and livestock management, leading to lower production costs.
Data about historical yields help farmers plan and predict future crop yields as will as the value of their land.
Increased resource efficiency reduces the environment and climate footprint and food production.
22
Obesity, hunger and food waste Worldwide, we waste a lot of food in all food categories. Meanwhile, hunger coexists with obesity due to a lack of food, as well as a lack of access to a good, nutritious diet. The lack of access to high-quality calories in fresh fruits and vegetables is of particular concern. A recent study by the McKinsey Global Institute notes that 30% of the world’s population is now overweight or obese (with that figure soon to be 50%, doubled since 1980). In the same time, globally are over 800 million hungry humans.
Obesity: over 1.9 billion people
Food hunger: over 800 million people
A recent study, by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, estimates that between 30% and 50% of all food produced is lost before human consumption, ranging between 1.2 and 2 billion tons. ‘‘Some people are eating too much, some are eating too little and a lot of food is wasted every day.’’ (Right Food Right 2015, online). The issue is generated by all humans, as we are the ones who buy and consumes the food. This system is driven by us and our habits. The choices we make determine the price of the food, the type and amount of food produced, as well as where it goes. Our buy choices and criteria are causing the global issue. The situation could be improved and have a positive impact on the problem, by only changing our food choices. Alternating our choices is difficult in an environment where we what we learn is controversial from what we face daily. We are thought how to eat healthy, avoid obesity and wood waste, wherein the everyday life we are surrounded by precedents of fast foods, junk foods in shops, unhealthy food advertisement on social media. All there are pushing buyers to pick highcalorie low-nutrient food, leading to overconsumption of energy and micro-nutrient deficiency at the same time. In the same time, because of the large use of unhealthy, ready meals, in numerous cases to eat healthy is more expensive and unaffordable for people with low income.
152 million unemployed workers are not covered
Only 45% of the global population is effectively covered by at least one social protection benefit
?
Food waste: 1.2-2billion tones per year
22% of the global urban population lack health coverage
56% of the global rural population lack health coverage
To reduce food waste on a wider scale, all key stakeholders need to participate to diminish the waste and create a systematic approach to solve this issue. Capturing and redirecting high-quality calories in food that is currently going to waste can help to reduce hunger, improve nutrition, and reduce obesity and diet-related illness. It can also improve the environment, enhance the sense of community, improve food security, and save money.
23
Food lose and waste
Daily consumption of fruits and vegetables
Studies show that the average UK household throws away £355.68 worth of food every year, equating to a startling £9.7billion across the country annually. Additionally, wasting costs more than money. Because of the food production the used energy causes the Carbon Dioxide (CO2). Also, water deficiency will be increased worldwide. We buy food from the market and the market is driven by our demand. Purchasing behaviour at the local supermarket affects farmers thousand of kilometres away, forced to throw away 100% edible plants because
Harvesting
Transport
the appearance is not perfect, which has nothing to do with its nutrition or taste. NHS latest research changed the recommended vegetable and fruit portion to 8, however, on average, the frequency of a daily intake is influenced by income and education level. Although only half of the population is consuming on a daily basis vegetables and fruits, changing the eating habits and increasing the number of people eating healthier, the demand would dramatically rise.
Storage
Processing
59%
68%
60%
70%
Shop
30%- 50%
of food is lost in supply chain
Customer
Food waste
1.2 mill tonnes Packed food
Fruit consumption
Vegetable consumption
61% at least once a day
65% at least once a day
18% eat from 1 to 3 times a week
10% eat from 1 to 3 times a week
12% eat from 4 to 6 times a week
24% eat from 4 to 6 times a week
9% never or occasionally
1% never or occasionally
30.8% (6.7 millon tonnes)
of all food purchased in thrown away
What is wasted more?
SALADS 50%
FRUITS & VEGETABLES 25%
BREAD & BAKERY 20%
MILK & DAIRY 10%
MEAT & FISH 10%
until 2014 NHS 5 Portions/day
after 2014 NHS 7 Portions/day
HIGHER DEMAND OF FRUIT & VEGETABLE
24
Link farmers directly to market Grow locally
Reduce transportation
Harvesting
Transport
Storage
Processing
Seller
On-farm storage facilities farming + storage + processing in one place Storage at the farm Need to improve processing technologies for Storage at the processing place perishable products like fruits and vegetables
Create/improve on-farm storage facilities to reduce post-harvest losses should be coupled with proper strategies and interventions to enhance access to markets. Furthermore, improve harvest techniques, educate farmers, storage facilities and cooling chains at the farm.
The food industry has long relied on technological advances to reduce losses and increase efficiency. Updating the machines and techniques, as nut and dried fruit/vegetables facilities on farm increase efficiency and minimise loses (plants that don’t meet retailer standards could be directly processes by drying them).
Creating storage and processing facilities at the farm, and facilitate buying directly from the farm
Problems:
Problems:
Problems:
Problems:
Problems:
-14%-21% Agriculture and post-harvest - Losses during sorting and grading dominate in industrialized regions, probably due to discarding during grading to meet quality standards set by retailers - Produced a lot of food but the quality is decreasing and waste increasing - Food loss represents wastage of natural resources - Buyer behaviour - 100% good plants discarded because shape and size
- Consumer choices influence imports and exports, consequently the mileage - Infrastructure and policies affect the duration of transportation - The resources used to produce food that is eventually lost or wasted account for approximately 4.4 gigatones of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalent) annually
- Lack of proper storage facilities, cold chain - Lack of proper food handling practice
- Poor food packaging - Waste and lost of natural resources - The nut and dried fruit industry is wasting a lot in its process
- Non-efficient marketing system - The food is spoiled or expired due to poor stock management or neglect
Solutions: - Higher quality - higher value - Change the buyer and retail perspective on food quality over aesthetics
Solutions:
Solutions: - On-farm storage facilities - Storage directly at the processing place - Update the machineries
Solutions: - Optimize food processing procedures - Efficient food processing would reduce significantly the loss
Solutions: - More efficient management and marketing - Educate customers on quality over aesthetics
- Streamline supply chain - New policies - Green vehicles
25
“Urban centres should strive to become food producers, and not just consumers” (Paul Teng)
For a too long time there is a real separation between agriculture and the food on our plates. When purchasing the products from the supermarket, we never actually picture where that food comes from, what process went into creating it. Recreating this connection, putting this system in the imideate of the town. Relationship between people who eat the food the the production itself.
As the world becomes increasingly urban, food demand will come mainly from people living in cities, while there will be fewer rural farmers producing food on less land with less water. Furthermore, the locus of poverty is likely to shift from rural to urban areas. Urban and peri-urban areas can and will have to play a bigger role in food security. But to accomplish this requires supportive enablers such as new farming approaches and technologies, new thinking and policies by policymakers, politicians and consumers willing to accept new food types and unconventional ways of food production.
26
Studio 3
SKELMERSDALE
Wigan
MAGHULL
BLACKPOOL
PRESTON BLACKBURN
LIVERPOOL
St Helens
RAINFORD LIVERPOOL
MANCHESTER
LONDON LIVERPOOL CHESTER
Well connected by - A570 to M58 & A580 - Railway connection between the Liverpool & Bury Railway’s Skelmersdale Branch and St Helens Railway
27
Hydroponic farming Establishing a decentralized network of local hydroponic farms, you can grow everything locally, eliminating the need to import many fruits and vegetables from far-away countries. Hydroponics gives the opportunity to reduce logistics costs and thus helps fight climate change. Through sawing space, farms can be placed inside urban areas. And because of their effective water usage, hydroponic systems are ideal for arid, cold regions.
Hydroponic systems
Pros
Cons
Aeroponics system
- Maximum nutrient absorption - Excess nutrient solution recirculation - Plentiful oxygen flow - Space efficient - Sustainable method of raising both fish and vegetables
- Prone to clogging - Technical malfunction could result in crop loss - High-tech - Time intensive - Poorly suited to tick organic-based nutrients & additives
Nutrient Film Technique system
- Excess nutrient solution recirculation - Plentiful oxygen flow - Space efficient
- Prone to clogging - Technical malfunction could result in crop loss
Drip system
- Excess nutrient solution recirculation - Sufficient oxygen flow
- Prone to clogging - Prone to algae growth - Requires regular cleaning
Water Culture system
-Cheapest of the active systems - Simple set up - No nutrient pump - Reliable
- Maximum nutrient absorption - Excess nutrient solution recirculation - Plentiful oxygen flow - Space efficient
Wick system
- Maximum nutrient absorption - Excess nutrient solution recirculation - Plentiful oxygen flow - Space efficient
- Risk of root rot if not cleaned regularly - Slower growth rate - Must top water until roots are long enough to fall into the nutrition solution - Must frequently refill reservoir
Ebb & Flow system
- Affordable -Low maintenance - Excess nutrient solution recirculates
- Prone to algae growth - Technical malfunction could result in crop loss
One for of hydraponics is Aquaponics, which combines a recirculating aquaculture with soilless plant culture. It is a sustainable method of raising both fish and vegetables. Why is not replaced traditional farming with aeroponics system? Firstly because the initial large investments. For a large-scale operation, is necessary the construction of a facility. Small decentralized hydraponic operation have a cost-advantage, as they can be established in pre-existing spaces for low cost. Secondly, expert knowledge in the field is still hard to find. For commercial systems to function properly, is needed technical skills to keep it running and for constantly controlling the systems. Thirdly, not all crops can be grown successfully in hydroculture. Some root-based vegetables such as potatoes and carrots do better in traditional agriculture.
Up to 8x (time ) higher yield than traditional soil base agriculture based Minimal pesticide use Year around growth Less space/footprint 90% less water
28
Vertical farming phases Phase 1 is greatly used, and more and more Phase 2 is implied, especially for growing tomatoes, cucumbers and strawberries. To make Phase 3 profitable, energy cost per kilo must be greatly reduced: no more than 25% of retail price. Experiments are made in the led technology, amount and light intensity, and nonetheless hybrids to increase productivity. For the two phases, there is significant freshness advantage in placing production close to consumption. For the last phase however, it is less much less important. In vertical farming, grains can be produced anywhere and transported anywhere without a freshness penalty.
PHASE 1 LEAFY GREEN & HERBS 5kWh/kg 300 kg/m2/year
Larger farms require own energy supply to ensure the cheapest possible energy. Because the sun isn’t consistent, it will need an energy storage system. Electricity costs can be reduced by 71%, being only possible due to the progress for the renewable energy. Phase 1 farms are only profitable now because of the significant improvements over the last years. Absolute yield is set to increase dramatically because vertical farming is a relatively new technology and also because the combination of highly controlled growing conditions, numerous sensors, artificial intelligence, and rapid cultivation periods greatly multiply the learning rate of vertical farming. The future farming will allow highly resilient food production system, the scales to produce more food and not be vulnerable to climate, flooding, and pest damages. The system will make the food cheaper, being locally sourced. A change which will contribute to eliminate hunger, and reduce agriculture’s global environmental impact (91% fresh water consumption reduction-> global water security). Techno farm 14% Energy 13% Labour 30% Depreciation
PHASE 2 VEGETABLES, FRUITS & ROOTS 12.5kWh/kg
PHASE 3 (2030) STAPLE CROPS 150kWh/kg 30 kg/m2/year
26% other
29
Sustainable approach SOCIAL
ECONOMIC
ENVIRONMENTAL
Zero Food Waste
Self-sufficient- circular economy
Sustainable agriculture
£ In order to achieve zero food waste, the programme was established so that the fresh products or other food supply left either unsold at the market/ restaurant / shop will be reorganized in delivered to those in need, and brought to the processing facility. Any unsuitable for human use, will be transformed into compost.
Growing and producing local food will bring economic value on the market and offer numerous job opportunities on each line. Although robotics and other technologies will be used to ensure minimal environmental footprint, human force is essential.
Introducing a combined system of food production, capitalisation, process and reuse, eliminates transportation (time, costs, Co2 emission), combines vertical and horizontal / indoor & outdoor farming to achieve a efficient and environmentally friend production. The technological advancement enables to reduce and use of pesticides and reduce the usage of natural resources, while protecting the air/soil/water and biodiversity.
The programme, in this way, benefits among the environment by avoinding food lose and waste by donating food for people and process them.
Renewable energy
The programme outlines a heavy use of energy. For reducing the environmental impact and costs, the system shell use green energy and capture the lost energy in the process. Alternative system as photovoltaic panels, wind mills, algae technology shall be used in combination to ensure green supply.
Local Farming
Local farming represents the key of the programme, allowing affordable access to healthy and nutritious food in row or cooked form. Furthermore, social and cultural aspects as cooking school, experimentation, community involvement in the farming process would educate people and encourage to have a healthy diet and appreciate food. 30
Circular Programme
PLANT GROWING
HOUSEHOLD Predicted population growth
STORAGE
Food Demand increase
COMPOST
PROCESSING
SHOP
Circular system allows to use at the fully all the plants and products to reach zero food lose and waste. Combining indoor & outdoor farming will permit to grow all the vegetables and fruits required for a healthy diet, as well as, undertake sustainable agriculture. Building all facilities in one place will boost the local economy, create job opportunities and relay on local support.
RESTAURANT
MARKET 31
Site analysis The maps illustrates the crops cultivated in and around Rainford, the relation to the existing farms, food factories, allotments and local markets, as well as the high risk flood zones. The town is surrounded by grassland with high risk flooding areas, while the farming land is located towards the east &s south. There is a low level in crop diversity, requiring high demand of food to be brought to the town.
32
Rainford demographics 5 portions (800g) consumption of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day Population 42573
47.6% Male
52.4% Female
292kg of fuits and vegetables per year per person
500 meter square minimum space for limited vegetable plot + 20 meter square flat surface fruit plot + 50 meter square orchard (apricot, apple, pear, plum, cherry) 0-17
18-64
65+
Employment industry
3518 Retail
570 meter square surface needed to grow basic plants (traditional method) for one person per year 2875 Health
2273 Manufacturing
570x42,573 =2,565 hectares: 350 (maximum kg/m2) =7.32 hectares of vertical farming + storage + spacing + plat room + other utilities
1822 Education
789 Accommodation & food
107 Agriculture
= 14 hectares 33
Scale
2,500 ha traditional farming 7 ha vertical farming 14 ha vertical farming + auxiliar
34
Precedent Building
Design
Size
AeroFarm Global Headquarters (USA)
Size: 21,000 sq. m
AeroFarm Newark Farm (USA)
Size: 800 sq. m
Techno Farm (Kyoto)
Size: 3,950 sq. m
Boeing everett (Washington)
factory
Size: 40 hectares (400,000 sq.m)
Laboratory meat Create-A-Pack Food (US)
Size: 3,700 sq.m
Sainsbury’s Distribution Centre, Saint Helens
Size: 4.5 ha
Inglenook Farm Market, Rainford
Size: 100sq.m
Production Harvest: up to 2 million pounds per year
Description It is the largest indoor vertical farm in the world based on annual growing capacity.
It is now a productive working farm that feeds the people of Newark (282,011 inhabitants) and the surrounding area.
Harvest: 648 lettuce heads/m2/ year
Largest warehouse
35
Scale 10ha PLANTATION
4.5ha STORAGE: - Fresh - Processed - Restaurant - Seeds - Products for plan growing 0.6ha (6,000 sq.m) PRODUCTION: - Drying - Packing - Salad mix - other
3ha RESEARCH - 2he Outdoor - 1he Indoor (crops+stable crops)
0.07ha (700 sq.m) RESTAURANT
0.1ha (1000 sq.m) MARKET
auxiliary production rooms can add up to 220% floor space to production room
0.2ha (1,200-2000 sq.m) LAB MEAT
+ PLANT ROOM + RENEWABLE ENERGY
23.47 ha +
5ha COMPOST - 1he Manufacturing + compost storage - 4he Waste site
36
Masterplan development
Iteration 1: One building
This iteration proposes to have all the programme and activities within one building. The yellow areas proposes different options to position the building in relation to unused land, proximity to road network. Advantages: - profitability to construct one building with all facilities - close proximity to transport Disadvantages: - over 10 minute walk for residents - the building scale will not fit in the rural context
SC. 1:600,000 on A3
Proposed area
A570
Main road
Secondary road
Grassland
37
Masterplan development
Iteration 2: Flooding & agriculture land
This iteration proposes position the building in relation to flooding and agricultural land, without overtaking the existing farms. Advantages: - profitability to construct one building with all facilities - use high risk flood land Disadvantages: - hard accessibility for residents - the building scale will not fit in the rural context
SC. 1:600,000 on A3
Proposed area Secondary road
A570
High risk flooding area
Grassland
Winter wheat
Spring wheat
Winter oat
Spring barley
Potato
Food production
Farm
Oilseed rape
Winter oat
Field bean
Winter barley
Other crops
38
Masterplan development
Iteration 3: Site strategy flooding, main road access & expansion
This iteration explores the merge of the previous proposals, taking in consideration walking distance and the use of wasted space between the town and main road acting as a flood barrier. Advantages: - profitability to construct one building with all facilities - use unused area around the town and flood land Disadvantages: - the building scale will not fit in the rural context - will use some of the outdoor recreation area and sport facilities of the town - will be cut through some of the main roads
SC. 1:600,000 on A3
Proposed area
A570
Green pedestrian lane
Main road
Secondary road
High risk flooding area
Grassland
39
Masterplan development
Iteration 4: Dispersed programme
This iteration explores the crop land, industrial area and the sport facility positioned in the immediate of the town centre. The first building proposes to reinvigorate the high street, bringing more shops and on site farming. The second building will comprise of the indoor & outdoor farming, with the processing and storage facility. Advantages: - profitability to construct two main building with all facilities - easy resident access to fresh food - reduces the travel distance, reducing pollution Disadvantages: - will use some of the outdoor recreation area of the town - will compete with existing small business
1
2 - Restaurant - Shop - Vertical farm - Storage - Research
1 - Vertical farm - Outdoor farm - Storage - Processing - Lab meat - Compost 2
SC. 1:600,000 on A3
Proposed area
A570
Sport facility
Farm
Winter wheat
Oilseed rape
Other crops
Industrial area
40
Iteration 5: Walking distance
Masterplan development This iteration proposes dispersed buildings around the city, within 1km walking distance for each inhabitant. Advantages:
- accessible for each inhabitant within walking distance
Disadvantages:
- cost ineffective due the numerous building - programme disjointed
2
SC. 1:600,000 on A3
Proposed area
A570
Green pedestrian lane
Main road
Secondary road
Green space
Sport facility
Farm
Market
Allotment
1km radius
Education institutions
41
Masterplan development
Final Iteration: Production in 2 places, consumption centred
This iteration explores the merge of the previous proposals, taking in consideration walking distance and the use of wasted space between the town and main road acting as a flood barrier. Advantages:
- proximity to secondary road & town & green link - accessible by half of the town - accessible by the entire town
Disadvantages:
- constructed over other crops & commercial building - programme too dispersed in 3 areas
1
2
1
3
2
SC. 1:600,000 on A3
3
Proposed area 1km radius
A570
Green pedestrian lane
Main road
Green space
Education institutions
Other crops
Industrial area
42
Design developement Iteration 1
The iteration tyres to merge with the surrounding, while maximizing the footprint to create indoor and outdoor farming. Views from the street were a key part while designing, intending to create a building to change the flat topography of the town.
Iteration 2
The second iteration further developed the outdoor space for farming, creating easier accessebility and more fluid lines and changing the skyline of Rainford.
43
Masterplan
Building 1
- vertical farm: community involvement - horizontal multi-cultured farm: social aspects - food production, lab meat - restaurant & shop: transparent food production, shop pay as you can->no food to be wasted - research department - storage, offices & plant room - interaction human-robots - divert river to prevent flooding-use water - landmark
Building 2
- education centre - outdoor farming: allotments, biodiversity - restaurant - market - vertical farm - storage
Green link
- allotment: social aspect, accessible for everybody - market: sell/exchange products - sitting area - multi culture agriculture: enhance biodiversity, free vegetables and fruits - nature-human-tech integration
Greenhouse
- different climate greenhouse allotments - sitting area - trees - multi culture agriculture: biodiversity - shelter - market: sell/exchange products - sitting area
Building 3
- vertical farm - outdoor grain multi-culture: community involvement - indoor vertical farm - food production & lab meat - research department - storage, offices &plant room 44
Building 1- farming centre Social aspect
Food production
Transparent food production
Human- robot interaction
Pay as you can -> food access
45
0
5
10
20
Building 2- education centre Biodiversity
Education & human- robot interaction
Education, market & product exchange
46
0
5
10
20
Greenhouse
47
Greenhouse- continental area
48
Greenhouse- tropical area
49
View from adjacent house
1.7m
4m
50