Vertical Farming in Urban Areas: A Growing Trend

Have you ever wondered what vertical farming is and what its true impact could be on the future of food production? Vertical farming is an agricultural technique that grows crops in stacked layers, either indoors or outdoors. In many cases, these systems incorporate LED lighting, controlled growing environments, and advanced nutrient management while significantly reducing—or even eliminating—the need for pesticides.

One of the greatest advantages of vertical farming is its ability to reduce water consumption by as much as 95%compared with conventional agriculture. It also makes it possible to cultivate food in urban areas, bringing production closer to consumers and reducing transportation requirements.

One of Europe’s largest vertical farms is in Copenhagen, Denmark. Covering nearly 7,000 square meters, the facility is expected to produce approximately 1,000 metric tons of food annually, making it a leading example of this innovative agricultural model.

According to recent research conducted by Duke University in the United States, vertical farming can help reduce environmental impacts because production is no longer dependent on weather conditions, allowing crops to be grown throughout the year. However, significant challenges remain. The energy required to power LED lighting, irrigation systems, and climate control—particularly when fossil fuels are involved—can increase operating costs and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

Despite these challenges, the vertical farming industry continues to expand rapidly. According to Statista, the global market reached US$20 billion in 2025, representing an increase of nearly 30% compared with 2020, when the market was valued at approximately US$5.5 billion.

Source: Duke University.