In a significant stride towards enhancing urban agriculture, researchers from Andalas University have introduced an innovative Solar Dryer Dome at the Sungkai Green Park Ecotourism site in Padang City. This initiative is not just a technical marvel; it’s a game changer for local farmers and the community at large. By integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional farming practices, this project aims to bolster food security and sustainability in urban settings.
The Solar Dryer Dome is a multifaceted structure designed to support the cultivation of various agricultural products, including vegetables, fish, and poultry. What sets this system apart is its unique design, featuring a UV plastic roof that shields plants from harmful rays while allowing sunlight to nurture growth. At the heart of the dome lies a fish pond, ingeniously utilizing fish waste as a natural fertilizer, showcasing a perfect example of a closed-loop system. This not only enhances plant growth but also promotes a sustainable approach to waste management.
Darwison Daud, a lead author from the Department of Electrical Engineering at Andalas University, emphasizes the importance of this project for local farmers. “This technology isn’t just about growing food; it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem that benefits everyone involved,” he explains. The Solar Dryer Dome employs an IoT-based control system, enabling farmers to monitor and manage various parameters such as temperature, humidity, and soil pH through their mobile devices. This level of oversight can drastically improve efficiency, making it easier for farmers to respond to changing conditions in real-time.
The results are impressive. With optimized growing conditions, vegetables can be harvested in as little as 21 to 27 days, while gourami fish can be produced at a rate of around 1,000 per year. Broiler chickens reach market readiness in just 30 days, and tea can be dried in a mere eight hours when the sun is shining. These timeframes not only enhance productivity but also reduce operational costs, making it economically viable for urban farmers to thrive.
Moreover, the initiative serves as an educational platform, empowering the local community with knowledge and skills in modern agriculture practices. “We’re not just building a structure; we’re building a community of informed farmers who can adapt to the challenges of urban farming,” Daud adds.
The implications of the Solar Dryer Dome extend beyond immediate agricultural benefits. By improving crop quality and reducing costs, this innovation plays a crucial role in enhancing local food security, particularly in urban areas where access to fresh produce can be limited. As urban farming continues to gain traction, projects like this could pave the way for future developments in the sector, inspiring similar initiatives across other cities.
This remarkable research has been documented in the ‘Jurnal Andalas,’ or ‘Andalas Journal,’ highlighting its significance in the field of agriculture and technology. As urban populations grow and the demand for sustainable practices increases, the Solar Dryer Dome stands as a beacon of hope for the future of farming.