Aquaponics is ideal for urban farmers, Gaza is a great example why.

With the horrific goings on in Gaza recently we are reminded of a news article we saw a while back.

In recent years, conflict with Israel meant that Gaza inhabitants had severe restrictions imposed in regard to agricultural land, upon which it previously depended.

The Gaza Strip is one of the most densely populated areas on earth (as is India), and feeding all its mouths is a challenge, especially with the 3% yearly population growth. About 97% of Gaza residents are currently urban or camp dwellers meaning about 1.7 million people have unreliable access to food.

What they do have, however, are rooftops.

Enter aquaponics.

In 2010 the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) set up 17 rooftop aquaponic systems in Gaza City. Enabling more people to grow and harvest their own food is a life-saving solution for many.

Learn more on the FAO’s website here.

We’re not sure how many of these essential systems are still running following recent events, but we like to think there are still a few fish swimming around on the rooftops.

Aquaponics in India will soon be offering consultancy services. Please get in touch for more information.

 

Written by Pippa Woodhead
Being a health-nut, London born Pippa has struggled to adjust to the lack of availability of lettuce and kale since re-locating to India. Previously naive to the extent of the worlds food struggles, she has now become obsessed with sustainability in food production and especially in India where it needs it the most (plus she’s also hoping to get her hands on some kale any day now). When she’s not writing for Aquaponics in India, she is usually found with her head in a book or in the kitchen experimenting with new vegetarian recipes.