Aquaponics to Promote Long-Term Food Safety and Water Quality Improvement

Abstract

An aquaponic system (ApS) combines hydroponics with aquaculture, which is economically and ecologically viable, environmentally friendly, and consumes renewable resources with utmost efficiency. The clear upsurge in ApS technology adoption demonstrates the growing recognition of its ability to address critical global issues such as food safety, water quality improvement (WQI), and farming sustainability, particularly in areas sensitive to climate change (CC) and resource availability. Over the past few years, it has experienced profound advances, with multiple approaches and variants emerging to enhance its usefulness and effectiveness. This paper presents aquaponics as an endeavor to sustain food safety in the long term while improving water quality (ApS-LTFS-WQI). This research meticulously analyzes the application of ApS in pursuing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and food security, considering various factors from system design and technology to peripheral social, economic, and environmental benefits and impacts through research and case studies. Nutrient-rich fish feeds markedly improve the growth of low-nutrient-demanding greens. Ensuring WQI and effective nitrification are essential, facilitated by Internet of Things (IoT) systems. ApS, recognized for its efficacy in augmenting agricultural yields while reducing the consumption of water and debris, is proliferating worldwide, particularly in arid areas.