Top 10 Benefits of On-Campus Vertical Farms for Schools

Incorporating vertical farming into school campuses offers a sustainable solution to enhance education and promote environmental stewardship. Schools with on-site farms gain hands-on learning opportunities in science, technology, and sustainability, while also providing fresh produce for students.

1. Hands-On Learning

Vertical farming provides students with an immersive, interdisciplinary learning experience, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. Through vertical farming, students engage in practical applications of biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and engineering. At Auburn University, the integration of a Freight Farm into their curriculum has offered students a unique opportunity to apply classroom concepts in a real-world setting.

Auburn's Freight Farm has become a living lab where students can experiment with and understand the complexities of modern agriculture. They can monitor and manage plant growth, study the effects of environmental controls on crop yield, and even analyze the economic viability of different farming methods. This hands-on approach has not only deepened their understanding of the subjects but has also equipped them with valuable skills that are directly applicable to careers in sustainable agriculture and food production (Vertical Farm Daily).

2. Sustainability Education

Students learn about sustainable agriculture and food systems, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental impact and resource management.

3. Fresh, Local Produce

On-campus vertical farms, like the one at the University of North Texas (UNT), have revolutionized how schools provide fresh, nutritious food to their students. UNT has elevated its dining services by incorporating a Freight Farm into their operations, ensuring a consistent supply of hyper-local, sustainably grown produce. This initiative not only supports healthier eating habits but also reduces the university's carbon footprint by cutting down on the need for long-distance food transportation.

The produce grown in these vertical farms is harvested at peak freshness and served directly to students, offering a farm-to-table experience that is both educational and beneficial to the students' health. Additionally, UNT's commitment to sustainability is evident in their efforts to educate students on the importance of locally sourced food, which has made the farm an integral part of their dining services and sustainability programs..

4. Health and Nutrition

School garden programs, including vertical farming, have been linked to better student health outcomes. Studies have found that students involved in gardening are more likely to increase their fruit and vegetable intake, which is crucial for combating childhood obesity and promoting long-term healthy eating habits (Tower Farms). Additionally, the fresh produce grown on-site can be incorporated into school meal programs, directly improving the nutritional quality of the food served.

5. Community Engagement

Vertical farms serve as a community hub, where students, teachers, and local residents can participate in educational workshops and events.

6. Innovation in Education

Integrating vertical farming into the curriculum positions schools as leaders in educational innovation. These programs not only provide a unique platform for teaching STEM but also prepare students for future careers in sustainable agriculture and environmental technology. Schools that have adopted vertical farming systems report that they enhance the learning experience by making abstract scientific concepts more tangible, which is crucial for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students.

7. Environmental Stewardship

Schools with vertical farms promote a culture of environmental responsibility, teaching students the importance of conserving resources and protecting ecosystems.

8. Career Pathways

Exposure to vertical farming can inspire students to pursue careers in agriculture, technology, and environmental science.

9. Reducing Food Waste

Vertical farms allow schools to manage food production more efficiently, thereby reducing waste. By growing produce on-demand, schools can harvest only what is needed, minimizing excess and spoilage. Additionally, the controlled environment of vertical farms reduces the likelihood of crop loss due to pests or weather, which further contributes to waste reduction(Green.org).

10. Cost Savings

Over time, schools can save on food costs by growing their own produce, reinvesting those savings into educational resources.

Conclusion

Implementing a vertical farm on campus not only enriches the educational experience but also supports sustainability, health, and innovation. Schools that embrace this technology can lead the way in creating a greener, healthier future.