GrowUp Urban Farms

GrowUp Urban Farms run the only commercial indoor aquaponic urban farm in a warehouse in East London. Aquaponics combines aquaculture (farming fish) and hydroponics (growing plants in a nutrient solution instead of soil). The farm in Beckton, called Unit 84, is a completely controlled environment growing space, using LED lighting over 10 vertically stacked growing layers, and a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS).

There is a growing importance to think more sustainably about food production in light of our growing population and making the most for our resources. This project is in response to that and demonstrates how engineering can be a gateway to greater sustainability in farming.

Organised by the IMechE Food & Drink committee, this lecture is a unique opportunity to hear how engineering innovations have contributed to establishing a sustainable farming environment in an urban setting, including fully-controlled LED lighting and water temperature systems.