This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
SYDNEY’S largest vertical urban farm will be launched by a partnership between Charter Hall Group and Urban Green.
The 1,000sqm basement space will be the site of production for over 30 varieties of microgreens, which Urban Green hopes will offset some of the environmental impacts on food production while meeting the needs of the growing urban population.
“What was previously an under-utilised space is now re-imagined and a prime example of not only the evolving nature of our workplaces, but how innovative business partnerships can bring sustainability and social benefits to our CBDs,” said David Harrison, managing director and CEO at Charter Hall.
Urban Green has the capacity to produce up to 4,000 punnets of microgreens a week, at approx. 20g per punnet, that’s 80kg of microgreens a week or 4,160kg a year. The vertical farm claims to use 95% less water than traditional farms.
These numbers are a boost from Urban Green’s previous capacity and educational reach in their previous location in Marrickville. The partnership with Charter Hall has also enabled them to create an online store, with click and collect and home delivery, as well as upcoming ‘grow it yourself’ kits.
“Sustainability is more important than ever for Charter Hall and our tenant customers. Having a vertical indoor farm as part of the 1 Shelley Street community provides a great opportunity to drive these values right in the heart of Sydney and improve education around sustainable farming methods,” said Natalie Devlin, chief experience officer at Charter Hall.
Vertical farming could potentially be a crucial component of meeting the challenges of an increasing population and subsequent rise in demand for food. Vertical farming, unlike traditional farming, is not at the whim of the weather and natural disasters.
“It’s important for more Australians to understand the future of food production and the benefits that vertical farming brings to the table,” said Noah Verin, director of Urban Green Sydney.
As workers begin to return to offices, with the easing of COVID-19 measures, Urban Green plans on running educational workshops on urban farming, for the 1 Shelley Street community, of which the major tenant customer is the Macquarie Group.
“We look forward to seeing tenants and locals engage with the space and pick up some fresh produce. Together, with Urban Green Sydney, we will deliver healthier and more sustainable outcomes for workers and the wider community,” said Devlin.
