The fifth e-discussion on the Synergy Portal organised within the INCiTiS-FOOD project explored the potential of transforming operational greenhouse hydroponics hubs into integrated circular farming systems combining hydroponics, aquaponics, bioponics and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technologies.
The discussion, titled “How can operational greenhouse hydroponics hubs successfully evolve into integrated circular farming systems that combine hydroponics, aquaponics, bioponics, and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technologies?”, was initiated by Sila Ooko from Jua Farm Umoja Youth Group SHG, one of the winners of the first INCiTiS-FOOD Open Call.
Launched on 7 July 2026 and concluded on 2 November 2026, the discussion received 19 impressions and three comments, bringing together different perspectives on the technical, operational, economic and institutional considerations involved in developing more integrated and circular farming systems.
Moving Towards Integrated Circular Farming Systems
The discussion focused on the potential for youth-led greenhouse hubs to move beyond food production and adopt more integrated approaches that improve resource efficiency, reduce waste and strengthen local livelihoods.
Combining hydroponics with aquaponics, bioponics and BSF production can create opportunities to recycle nutrients, transform organic waste into productive inputs and develop more resilient climate-smart agriculture models.
However, the successful integration of these technologies requires careful consideration of technical and operational factors. As highlighted during the discussion, nutrient composition, production timing, food safety, biosecurity and overall system stability need to be carefully managed to ensure that the different components can function effectively together.
A gradual and modular approach was identified as a practical way forward. Rather than introducing all technologies simultaneously, existing hubs could first assess their main resource constraints and underutilised waste streams before testing individual components and progressively increasing the level of integration.
This approach would enable operators to identify solutions that are appropriate to their specific context while assessing their technical and financial viability.
The Importance of Knowledge Sharing and Partnerships
The exchange also highlighted that the successful development of integrated farming systems depends on more than technological solutions alone.
Sabine Desczka emphasised that fragmented knowledge and information can represent a significant obstacle to successful implementation. Strengthening data sharing and co-creation processes could therefore support more effective collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
Similarly, Inder Kumar highlighted the importance of partnerships and sustainable business models. Collaboration between youth-led greenhouse hubs, local farmers, markets, businesses and training institutions could help share resources, reduce costs and identify new income opportunities.
Practical training, peer-to-peer learning and business mentoring were also identified as important measures for supporting young entrepreneurs and enabling them to test and develop integrated farming solutions.
Ensuring Long-term Economic and Societal Value
The discussion also introduced an important economic perspective on the role of public support in scaling innovative agricultural solutions.
As a winner of the INCiTiS-FOOD cascade-funding call, Sila Ooko has received support intended to scale an innovation developed within the project. Such support can provide innovators with the opportunity to test new approaches and reduce the initial costs and risks associated with the development of integrated farming systems.
However, as highlighted by Prof. Dr. Gertrud Buchenrieder, the benefits generated through public support should be systematically assessed. An operational hydroponics hub could serve as a living laboratory in which technical, environmental, economic and social outcomes are monitored and documented.
Relevant indicators could include reductions in water and mineral fertiliser use, quantities of waste converted into productive inputs, yields and survival rates, energy consumption, operating and maintenance costs, employment creation and income generation.
This evidence can help assess whether public support contributes to genuine additionality and whether the developed models can remain viable beyond the initial period of grant financing.
Supporting the Transition Towards Sustainable Food Systems
The fifth INCiTiS-FOOD e-discussion demonstrated that the transition towards integrated circular farming systems requires a combination of technological innovation, knowledge sharing, capacity building, partnerships, and economically viable business models.
The discussion initiated by Sila Ooko also illustrates how innovators supported through the INCiTiS-FOOD Open Calls can contribute to knowledge exchange and collaboration beyond the implementation of their individual innovations.
By providing a space for stakeholders to exchange experiences and perspectives, the Synergy Portal supports collaboration across projects and networks working towards more sustainable, resilient and circular food systems.
The insights shared during this discussion underline the importance of testing integrated solutions in practice, documenting their impacts and translating the lessons learned into knowledge that can support future innovations and contribute to the development of sustainable city-region food systems.
Follow the INCiTiS-FOOD website, LinkedIn profile, and Synergy portal for all further updates on e-discussions.
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