A NGO has piloted a closed cycle agricultural technology through aquaponics farming where the food production is not
dependent on constant water supply, providing a perfect match while ensuring food security along with efficient water (re)use. The approach of the project is the generation of products demonstrated through alternative agricultural tool with end- users as vulnerable populations and the production of locally grown, low-cost organic vegetables.
Initial situation
Armenia has two major water sources available for the use of agricultural and drinking purposes; that is, Sevan Lake and the Ararat Valley Aquifer. Currently, Armenia is facing one of the most known global issues of water availability and security. Moreover, Armenia is a landlocked country and has limited access to external sources of food supply. Thus, it is vital for the country to solidify and support internal food production systems.
Solution
In 2014, „Green Age“ NGO has established a model aquaponics-based micro farm (granted from the Norwegian Embassy in Moscow) in one of the driest villages of Armenia (Armavir Region, village Apaga „https://goo.gl/maps/3iTN0“). The constructed micro farm has successfully adapted to the available market, and currently, is supplying greens to some of the city central restaurants and food centers on 100% of its production.
Innovation
The innovation is based on aquaponics farming technology that serves as an alternative to soil based agriculture. The technology is based on utilization of minimal amount of water for organic food production (no irrigation), without having any waste water disposal. Thus, the „game-changing“ aspect of the initiative is the possibility to provide sufficient food security level with extremely minimal use of water resources. The innovation is also applicable to any type
of rural/urban areas including the cheapest lands (saline/sand soils).
• Producing vegetables through aquaponics farming
• Aquaponics uses 90% less water than a plot of land
• Fully operating small-scale production unit
• Significantly higher rates of production in aquaponics
• The duplication of the technology is highly probable
