ImpactAlpha, August 11 — Vertical farming ventures are raking in capital on the promise of increased food security and decreased carbon emissions. One disadvantage compared to both conventional farming and ground-level greenhouses: significantly higher energy use.
Hamilton, Ohio-based 80 Acres says its vertical farming systems use renewable energy to grow leafy greens, herbs, tomatoes, cucumbers and microgreens.
“There’s a pressing need for healthy, fresh and local foods that are grown in more sustainable and cost-effective ways,” said Shaw Joseph of General Atlantic, which led the company’s Series B financing with participation from Siemens, Blue Earth Capital and others.
