Part 9/10:
Overcoming this skepticism requires significant public education. Once consumers taste and experience the quality of vertical farm produce, their perceptions tend to shift favorably. As Lloyd Jones notes, the appeal of fresher, tastier, and more nutrient-dense food can help build consumer trust and demand.
The Road Ahead
The journey toward mainstream vertical farming involves addressing key challenges:
Reducing capital and operational costs through technological innovation
Scaling operations to achieve economies of scale
Educating consumers about the benefits and safety of indoor-grown produce
Expanding renewable energy integration and water-saving systems