One of the key focus areas for us at Shunya is to help reduce the quantum of water used to grow fodder. The common practice is to flood the fields with water - a practice which can be and should be altered and is leading to desertification.
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| Hydroponic Fodder Helps Save Water |
Hydroponic fodder production saves water through several key mechanisms. Firstly, these systems typically recirculate water, allowing it to be reused within the system instead of being lost through runoff or evaporation as often occurs in traditional farming.
Secondly, hydroponic systems deliver water directly to the seeds / plant roots, minimizing evaporation compared to surface irrigation methods. Moreover, these systems optimize water usage by precisely delivering water and nutrients to the plants, ensuring that they receive what they need without wastage.
Some of our hydroponic systems are even designed as closed-loop systems, further minimizing water loss by continuously recycling and reusing water within the system. Additionally, any unused water in hydroponic systems can be captured and recycled, contributing to overall water conservation efforts.
Another aspect contributing to water savings in hydroponic fodder production is the potential for indoor production. Indoor hydroponic systems allow for precise control over environmental conditions like temperature and humidity, reducing water loss due to evaporation under unfavorable outdoor conditions. This indoor setting also enables more efficient water usage compared to outdoor farming, as water can be conserved and recycled within a controlled environment. By combining water-recycling technologies with controlled indoor environments, hydroponic fodder production maximizes water efficiency, making it a sustainable option particularly suited for regions facing water scarcity or drought conditions.