The Applicability of the Solar Powered Aquaponics Mobile Unit at Sharjah Campus for Sustainable Perspective of Food Security

Abstract

By recognizing the limitations of conventional farming methods in meeting the escalating global population and the resulting increased demand for food, this study emphasizes the crucial need for sustainable agriculture techniques. This work focuses on establishing a solar-powered aquaponics system as a sustainable, cost-effective, and ecologically responsible approach to ensure food security in the UAE. This paper describes the implemented aquaponics prototype within the mobile learning unit at the Sharjah Campus of the Higher College of Technology by integrating fish and plant cultivation in a closed-loop system to prioritize water conservation and eliminate reliance on soil, align with United Nations sustainable development goals and promoting sustainable farming practices for robust food production in the UAE. The solar energy system was employed for 6 photovoltaic modules for LED lights and 13 photovoltaic modules for the pumping system, with a total installation area of 50 m2. It is found that the power requirements are comparatively lower than the vertical setup, which requires 6 photovoltaic modules for the LED and 14 photovoltaic modules for the pumping system. This paper assesses the functional parameters, including electricity consumption by solar panels and water pump energy usage. Furthermore, investigates the impact of fish and plant interactions on water quality and nitrification efficiency, addressing deficiencies in traditional farming and aquaculture. Monthly evaluations reveal favorable conditions, with pH levels of 6.4-7.2, temperatures between 31.8°C and 34.7°C, and ammonia levels at 1 mg.L-1. Aquatic life exhibits an 83% survival rate and a specific growth rate of 3.92% daily.