As the world grapples with the challenges of food security and environmental sustainability, UNS Vertical Farms is taking a proactive step by launching its educational Farm Tours in Dubai. The initiative aims to foster awareness about sustainable farming practices, offering the community a hands-on opportunity to learn about the benefits of vertical farming and how local food systems contribute to environmental conservation.
UNS Farms, a division of the Speedex Group, has been a trailblazer in the vertical farming industry in the UAE since 2018. With this new venture, the company is making a significant impact in educating Dubai’s residents, from students to families, about how choosing locally grown produce can lead to healthier lives and a more sustainable planet.
The Farm Tours are structured to last one hour and are designed to be engaging for diverse groups, including children, students, and community members. Participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at how UNS Farms grows fresh microgreens, salads, and edible flowers in a controlled environment. This tour also highlights the farm’s efforts in resource conservation, energy efficiency, and reducing its carbon footprint, aligning with the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy.
The Power of Vertical Farming for Sustainability
Vertical farming offers a promising solution to modern agricultural challenges, especially in urban settings where space is limited. By stacking crops vertically, farms can produce high yields in small areas, reducing land usage and optimizing resource consumption. UNS Farms uses hydroponics and carefully controlled environments to grow plants without soil, enabling them to thrive with minimal water and nutrients. This method significantly reduces the environmental impact of traditional farming, including water usage and transportation emissions.
Visitors to UNS Farms will observe the farm’s crop sections in action, seeing firsthand how microgreens, salads, and flowers are grown. The educational experience also covers soil mixes, plant life cycles, and the technology behind hydroponic systems. “By connecting people with the source of their food, we can inspire them to make informed decisions that support both their health and the planet,” said Mehlam Murtaza, Executive Director of UNS Vertical Farms. “We want to show how sustainable practices can be implemented in everyday life.”
Supporting Local Food Systems
The tours not only aim to educate about farming practices but also emphasize the importance of supporting local food systems. By choosing locally grown produce, residents can significantly reduce their carbon footprint, as food does not need to be transported long distances. UNS Farms’ operation is a model of how cities can provide fresh, nutritious food year-round without relying on imports.
The tour concludes with a take-home grow kit, encouraging participants to apply their newfound knowledge at home and start their own sustainable gardens. This initiative promotes a deeper connection to food and the environment, empowering individuals to become active participants in sustainable practices.
A Commitment to a Greener Future
Since its establishment, UNS Farms has been dedicated to providing Dubai with high-quality, locally grown produce. With its focus on ecological balance, resource efficiency, and minimal land use, UNS Farms is helping to build a more sustainable food ecosystem in the UAE. The educational tours play a crucial role in spreading the message of sustainability and food security, helping Dubai move closer to its vision of becoming a global leader in food resilience and environmental stewardship.
UNS Farms’ educational farm tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the potential of vertical farming and local food systems. By educating the community about sustainable practices, the initiative inspires a shift towards healthier food choices and a greener future. As the world continues to face food security and environmental challenges, local solutions like UNS Farms are essential in creating a sustainable food system for future generations.
