Bringing the farm to NYC
New York Magazine had an interesting article on the concept of “skyfarming” — building skyscrapers that would house vast amounts of agriculture. This idea has been explored, in a theoretical sense, by a professor at Columbia.
Of course, as with most big ideas, this one is supposed to solve most of the world’s ills, including global warming, the need for sustainable energy, the ability to feed a rapidly-growing population, clean water, fresh food, global terrorism and Tom Cruise’s love of Scientology. Ok, I made the last two up. But you get the idea.
In theory, it all sounds wonderful. The science behind the ideas is not entirely theoretical. However, unless billions of dollars suddenly appear out of nowhere (attention Bill Gates, Warren Buffet and George Soros), it will be difficult for these ideas to grow beyond the concept stage.