Back to school season is a time filled with excitement and anticipation as students, teachers, and parents gear up for a new academic year. While the focus is often on new supplies, uniforms, and class schedules, some schools are taking a different approach this year by incorporating sustainability initiatives into their back to school preparations. One such innovative project is taking place at Riverdale Country School, where a new 40-foot vertical, hydroponic shipping container farm by Freight Farms is set to enhance the way students learn about agriculture and environmental stewardship.
Cuono Engineering has been selected to work on this project in collaboration with AKRF. The project involves the installation of an 8-ton container farm on the school grounds, which will serve as a sustainable agriculture learning center for students.
Embracing adaptive re-use and architectural upcycling practices, the use of shipping containers as a farming solution is a growing trend in the field of sustainable agriculture. These re-purposed containers provide a controlled environment for growing produce, allowing for year-round cultivation regardless of external weather conditions. Additionally, container farms require minimal space and resources compared to traditional farming methods, making them ideal for urban environments like NYC.
While space is not an issue for Riverdale Country School, which is located on 27.5 acres in the Riverdale section of the Bronx, the container farm will provide hands-on learning opportunities for students and support the school's commitment to sustainability. From planting seeds to harvesting crops, students will have the chance to learn about the entire food production process firsthand. By growing fresh produce on-site, the school can promote healthy eating habits among students and staff while aligning their efforts with NYC's One NYC 2050 plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This experiential learning approach is invaluable in fostering a deeper understanding of where food comes from and the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture.
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