Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) has partnered with US-based vertical farming company, Crop One, to open the world’s largest hydroponic farm in Dubai in an effort to minimise the group’s environmental footprint.
The farm facility, dubbed Bustanica, is geared to produce more than 1 million kilograms of produce, mostly leafy greens, which are free of pesticides, herbicides and chemicals. According to EKFC, the facility grows in excess of 1 million cultivars (plants) at any one time, which will provide an output of 3,000 kilograms of produce per day.
Located near Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central, the farm’s closed-loop system is designed to maximise water usage and requires 95 per cent less water than conventional agriculture. According to EKFC, this will save more than 250 million litres of water annually.
Emirates Airline and Group chairman and CEO, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, said the facility “ushers in a new era of innovation and investments, which are important steps for sustainable growth” as well as long-term food security.
“Bustanica helps secure our supply chain, and ensures our customers can enjoy locally sourced, nutritious produce. By bringing production closer to consumption, we’re reducing the food journey from farm to fork,” he added.
Crop One CEO, Craig Ratajczyk, added: “After significant planning and construction, and navigating the unforeseen challenges of the pandemic, we’re thrilled to celebrate this tremendous milestone… This new facility serves as a model for what’s possible around the globe.”
Produce from the farm will be served onboard Emirates flights, as well as other airlines serviced by EKFC, from July. Produce will also be available for purchase in UAE supermarkets, with plans to expand into the production and sale of fruit and vegetables.