I think they only make sense if the entire process from top to bottom is redesigned to minimize impact. This could be pretty tough and I’m not sure the energy requirements are even possible with today’s technology. Maybe if advanced geothermal really takes off? The land occupied by solar doesn’t make sense unless maybe it’s in extreme desert or something.

[–] nixon@sh.itjust.works 2 points 3 months ago

If the land isn’t otherwise arable, such as extreme desert, then there most likely isn’t any population centers nearby. Minimizing environmental impact would have to factor in the transportation of resources to the facility and grown food out of the facility to consumers too.

I think verticals farms are going to be an important component for future food production, especially with climate change. You are right though, the entire process needs to be redesigned holistically before it is a viable option compared to traditional farming.

That isn’t to say we shouldn’t be building these facilities now though; I think the more we build now the faster we will solve these problems by putting practical research into the needed technology.