Dickson Despommier, a pioneering microbiologist, died at 84 on February 7. He was renowned for advocating vertical farming—growing food in high-rise buildings to sustainably feed urban populations. His designs envisioned a 30-story structure providing food for 50,000, significantly reducing water usage compared to traditional farming. His influential book, 'The Vertical Farm,' published in 2010, sparked global interest, leading to the establishment of vertical farms worldwide. Despommier's work highlighted the potential for urban agriculture to combat climate change and promote sustainable living in densely populated areas.
Dr. Despommier argued that vertical farms would use 70 to 90 percent less water than traditional farms, allowing agricultural land to return to a natural state.
In 2001, he and students designed a 30-story building that could theoretically grow food for 50,000 people, showcasing the practical potential of vertical farming.
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