On a local scale, we are taking initiative to improve the marine ecosystem and increase sustainable farming.
Aquaponics is a form of aquaculture, or farming without soil and strictly water. Aquaponics is a sustainable way to grow organic plants as well as fish in the same closed system. The fish feces provide nutrients for the plants while the plants filter and oxygenate the water for the fish. Sustainability falls into play because of the closed system aspects of aquaponics. It uses 90% less water than traditional farming due to the fact that the water is recycled throughout the system. This is a useful tool for areas that are dry or infertile, allowing to grow produce year round. We hope to use this system as a means to expose students to environmentally friendly solutions for growing food. For more information check the link below:
Aquaponics
As Our Planet’s base is in South Florida, we have decided to dedicate some of our work to the local area. Currently we have built an aquaponics system that holds about 1,200 gallons of water. Our aquaponics system includes:
Our hope was to be able to inspire fellow classmates and students not only at Boca High, but throughout the community to see how important sustainable farming is. Additionally, all food is donated to a local shelter, called Boca Helping Hands, to feed the poor. Our aquaponics system will be incorporated into Boca High’s curriculum through several fields of study, which can open up a whole new world for countless students. This system was also able to allow Boca High to become a Green School of Excellence!