Design of an aquaponic system for integrated fish and plant production in Bologna (Italy)

In the short-term, an increased role will be played by cities in the decisive shift to create more resilient communities. Aquaponic Design® aims to be part of this change through the design and construction of modular and customizable urban aquaponic systems, fostering public awareness on environmental issues, specifically targeting food production and distribution. By promoting short food chains, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions associated with both transport and packaging, is achieved. In the present study, results from a real environment aquaponic prototype are presented. The growing system, hosted at Le Serre - Kilowatt sustainable food and co-working hub in Bologna, Italy, includes a productive part (230 plants grown in vertical towers) and a table with 12 integrated and communicating mini ponds. The system is also connected with a raised pond (10,000 L), hosting 400 fishes (including goldfish, koi, medaka and gambusias). Part of the system is accessible to the public and used for demonstrative and training purposes. Preliminary data on productive potential and system resilience are also presented.