The agricultural landscape is undergoing a transformative shift with the advent of vertical farming, an innovative approach that is gaining traction across the globe. In Italy, Agricola Moderna has partnered with Azimut’s IPC Fund to launch a new vertical farming facility in Agnadello, located in the province of Cremona. Set to become operational by September 2024, this facility is designed to significantly enhance the production and distribution of fresh, high-quality produce while embracing sustainability.
The Vision Behind Vertical Farming
Agricola Moderna, a pioneer in vertical farming in Italy, first launched its pilot plant in Melzo in 2019. With this new facility, the company aims to expand its reach nationwide, focusing on the cultivation of aromatic herbs and “Teen Leaf” varieties of salad, which are currently underrepresented in the Italian market. This approach not only promises fresher produce for consumers but also opens the door to a new era of sustainable agriculture.
The investment from the IPC Fund amounts to approximately €15 million, which will be allocated for the construction of the facility and equity investments in Agricola Moderna. This investment is particularly significant as it aligns with the fund’s commitment to social infrastructure and environmentally sustainable practices.
Innovative Features of the New Facility
The Agnadello facility will encompass an area of around 9,000 square meters, with 2,000 square meters dedicated to vertical farming. This setup will enable the production of over 900 tons of leafy vegetables annually, which translates to an impressive average of 2.5 tons per day. In traditional farming, producing this volume would require approximately 30 hectares of agricultural land—about 18 times the area of Milan’s Piazza del Duomo—and around 180 million liters of water yearly, equivalent to 73 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
One of the standout features of vertical farming is its efficiency. This method utilizes hydroponic systems that not only conserve water—potentially saving up to 95% compared to traditional farming—but also eliminate the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides. The controlled environment of vertical farms allows for precise management of plant growth, ensuring that crops are produced in optimal conditions year-round.
A Step Towards Sustainability
Andrea Cornetti, CEO of Real Estate and Infrastructure at Azimut Libera Impresa, emphasizes that this investment serves two critical goals: supporting innovative infrastructure sectors and committing to sustainable investments that yield measurable positive impacts over time. This initiative is poised to not only provide fresh produce but also contribute to the overarching goals of environmental stewardship and sustainable agriculture.
Agricola Moderna, founded in 2018 by Pierluigi Giuliani and Benjamin Franchetti, has already made significant strides in the vertical farming sector in Italy. With their commitment to quality and sustainability, they aim to build a model enterprise that generates value for all stakeholders involved—from shareholders to consumers of their fresh salads and herbs.
The upcoming vertical farming facility in Cremona symbolizes a significant advancement in sustainable agriculture, paving the way for innovative practices that can address pressing environmental challenges. As Agricola Moderna and Azimut join forces to enhance Italy’s agricultural landscape, they set a precedent for future investments in vertical farming, proving that modern agriculture can be both productive and sustainable.
