長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題73

Urban vertical farming represents a revolutionary approach to agriculture that addresses the growing challenges of food security in densely populated cities. By utilizing controlled indoor environments, these facilities can produce crops year-round without relying on traditional soil or weather conditions. LED lighting systems provide precise wavelengths of light optimized for plant growth, while hydroponic and aeroponic systems deliver nutrients directly to plant roots.
Recent studies indicate that vertical farms can produce up to 390 times more crops per square meter compared to traditional farming methods. Companies like AeroFarms and Plenty have successfully implemented commercial vertical farming operations, growing leafy greens and herbs in urban warehouses. These facilities use 95% less water than conventional agriculture and eliminate the need for pesticides.
However, vertical farming faces significant challenges, particularly regarding energy consumption. The LED lighting systems required for plant photosynthesis consume substantial amounts of electricity, making operational costs considerably higher than traditional farming. Despite these limitations, experts predict that technological advances and decreasing LED costs will make vertical farming economically viable for a wider range of crops within the next decade.