Project Biruwa: Transforming Nepalese Agriculture with Aeroponics Innovation

As urbanization intensifies and arable land becomes scarce, innovative agricultural practices are gaining traction globally. Aeroponics, a method of growing plants in an air or mist environment without soil, has emerged as a beacon of hope. Initially developed by NASA to cultivate crops in the limited space of space missions, aeroponics, combined with vertical farming, offers a sustainable solution to modern agricultural challenges. We, the Impacters, in collaboration with Naya Yatra Pvt. Ltd. (Naya), are at the forefront of this technological revolution, exploring the potential of low-pressure vertical aeroponics for both local and foreign crops.

The Promise of Aeroponics

Aeroponics stands out for its efficiency and resourcefulness. Plants grown using this method receive nutrients through a nutrient-rich mist, which is periodically sprayed onto their roots. This technique dramatically reduces water usage by up to 95% compared to traditional farming and eliminates the need for pesticides, as the controlled environment is less susceptible to pests. Additionally, the vertical structure of aeroponics systems allows for a significant reduction in the required acreage, making it ideal for urban settings.

The system can be classified into high-pressure and low-pressure variants. High-pressure aeroponics, though more productive, is complex and costly to maintain. Conversely, low-pressure systems, as we experimented with, are simpler and more cost-effective, making them accessible for small-scale farmers and researchers in Nepal.

Local Implementation and Research

We undertook project Biruwa to create a low-pressure aeroponics tower from scratch, using locally available materials. Our goal was to evaluate the overall cost and feasibility of constructing such a system. Despite challenges, such as the unavailability of food-grade PVC and certain electronic components, we successfully built a functional prototype.

Our project’s significance extends beyond the construction of the tower. It marks a pivotal step in the local adaptation of aeroponics technology. In Nepal, where traditional farming faces numerous hurdles including unpredictable weather, limited arable land, and water scarcity, aeroponics offers a viable alternative. This method ensures year-round crop production, optimal resource use, and potentially higher yields.

Incorporating 3D Modeling and 3D Printing

To enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our aeroponics system, we utilized 3D modeling and 3D printing technologies. These advanced tools allowed us to design precise components tailored to our specific needs. The use of 3D modeling enabled us to visualize and optimize the design of the aeroponics tower before actual construction, ensuring that all parts fit perfectly and function seamlessly.

Once the designs were finalized, 3D printing allowed us to create custom parts that were otherwise difficult to obtain locally. For instance, we printed specialized sprinkler nozzles, drain covers, electronic housing and other components that were essential for the proper functioning of the system. This not only reduced costs but also improved the overall efficiency of the tower by ensuring that each component was designed for optimal performance.

Experimenting with Crop Yields

To assess the effectiveness of our aeroponics system, we experimented with various crops, including lettuce, coriander, mustard, and tomatoes. The results were mixed but promising. While the lettuce crop failed, likely due to issues related to sunlight exposure, water pH, and the automated system's on-off cycle, other crops thrived. Coriander grew robustly, and tomato plants, though not yet fruiting, reached impressive heights. Mustard seedlings showed significant growth within 20 days, highlighting the system’s potential for certain crops.

These findings suggest that while some foreign crops may require further refinement of the aeroponics system or different environmental conditions, many local crops can flourish. The potential to enhance food security and reduce dependency on traditional farming methods is significant.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The economic implications of adopting aeroponics in Nepal are profound. With our initial project costing around NPR 9000 per vertical stack and minimal monthly operating expenses, this method presents a cost-effective farming alternative. The substantial savings on water and pesticides, coupled with the ability to grow crops in urban areas, can revolutionize the agricultural landscape. Farmers can produce more with less, contributing to the economy while preserving natural resources.

Environmentally, aeroponics reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional farming. By utilizing vertical space and minimizing water use, it supports sustainable agriculture and mitigates the environmental impact. The closed-loop system also prevents nutrient runoff, a common problem in soil-based farming that leads to water pollution.

Looking Ahead

The potential for low-pressure vertical aeroponics in Nepal is promising, particularly for local crops. The successful implementation of such systems could lead to greater agricultural productivity, enhanced food security, and a reduction in environmental impact. However, further research and adaptation are needed to optimize the system for a wider range of crops, including those not native to Nepal.

As we, the Impacters, continue to refine our aeroponics technology in collaboration with Naya, we pave the way for a new era in Nepali agriculture. By embracing these innovative farming methods, Nepal can address its agricultural challenges head-on, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for its farmers and its people.