Agriculture currently accounts for 70% of all freshwater withdrawals in the world (2 quadrillion gallons). Of that, 40% is underutilized or lost to the environment [1].
Problem Statement
Create a solution that utilizes rainwater harvesting to solve the problem of wasted water at LaFarm. This will save the farm water and money in order to operate more effectively and sustainably. The system will also be able to filter the water of the wash and pack station in order to achieve Good Agricultural Practice certification.
What are we trying to do?
Throughout the 2022-23 academic year, our team is committed to developing a product that solves a problem in the area of food/drink. The main objectives of this project are to reduce water waste, reduce potable water consumption, improve the quality and sanitation of food, and implement renewable energy. We will work in sub-teams and remain in constant contact with the larger group throughout the design process. We plan on following the disciplined engineering process of problem scoping and interviewing, design, and finally prototyping. We plan to have a fully functioning prototype by the end of the year.
Sources:
[1] High Tide Technologies: Water Usage in the Agricultural Industry, by Paul Balsom, September 28, 2020.