Urban farming is changing the world of agriculture, giving city-dwellers the opportunity to raise their own crops in an efficient, natural way without having to rely on getting produce from a farm abroad. The only thing is that costs for starting a rooftop greenhouses are high. That’s why Brad McNamara create the Leafy Green Machine, an ultra-efficient urban farm with vertical hydroponics and LED light systems packed in a shipping container. The 320 square-foot unit can grow as much produce as two acres of farmland while using less water than the average American needs for a shower. For McNamara, who is based out of Boston, his creation has allowed local restaurant owners grow their own vegetables even in the cold New England weather. And while they’re perfect for cities, these small urban farmers can essentially be put anywhere, giving communities around the world the chance to grow their own food in an eco-friendly way. The Leafy Green Machine won’t replace rooftop greenhouses, but it well certainly add to the future of urban farming.
Urban farming 2.0: Meet the Leafy Green Machine
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