Hydroponic farms to encourage sustainable agriculture

The Ministry of Agriculture has been awarded five indoor hydroponic farms which it is setting up across the Cayman Islands to teach people about sustainable farming.

The ‘Flex Farms’ are capable of growing a diverse range of foods efficiently and affordably throughout the year, according to a government press release.

“Remarkably, a single Flex Farm can produce 25 pounds of lettuce in just 28 days while occupying a mere 9-square-feet of space,” it said.

The introduction of the hydroponic farms is a result of collective efforts of the ministry, the Department of Agriculture, and the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator.

Agriculture Minister Jay Ebanks and Education Minister Juliana O’Connor-Connolly delivered the first units on Thursday, 5 Oct.

Edna Moyle Primary School, Beacon Farms, Clifton Hunter High School and the Department of Agriculture each received one hydroponic farm.

The next delivery, to Layman E. Scott High School in Cayman Brac, is scheduled over the coming weeks.

Ebanks said he is thrilled the Cayman Islands has been recognised and chosen for the project, which supports the draft Food and Nutrition Security policy.

“As we continue to enhance and modernise our agricultural sector, these Flex Farms will significantly complement our efforts, strengthening the food and nutrition security endeavours of the Cayman Islands,” he said.

The Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator programme advocates for enhanced food security, sustainability, and social inclusion throughout the Caribbean.

It is supported by Sony Music Global Social Justice Fund and Fork Farms.

Eric Bush, chief officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, said, “This collaboration underscores our unwavering commitment to innovative solutions that cater to our community’s needs.

“By embracing the future of agriculture, we are not only securing our food supply but also laying the foundation for generations to come for the future of the Cayman Islands.”