Title : Hydroponics as a sustainable farming system: Sufficient productivity, water saving, and ecofriendly practices
Abstract:
This study investigates the potential of hydroponic systems as a sustainable solution in Palestine, region facing sever water scarcity, climate change impacts and geopolitical constraints. The agriculture sector is under increasing pressure due to land loss and declining productivity, while water resources are critically limited and often contaminated. The research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of hydroponics in improving water use efficiency, enhancing food security, and increasing agricultural productivity compared to conventional soil- based farming. A mixed- method approach was applied, combining experimental greenhouse work with field visits and semi- structured interviews conducted with farmers in the West Bank. The experimental study was carried out at Palestine Technincal University in Tulkarm, where a Dutch bucket hydroponic system was used to cultivate lettuce under controlled conditions. Key parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), temperature, plant growth, and water consumption, were mentioned throughout different growth stages. The results demonstrated that hydroponic cultivation maintained stable and optimal growing conditions, leading to significant improvements in plant growth and biomass production. Water use efficiency was notably higher compared to traditional farming, with substantial reductions in irrigation requirements. Filed data and farmer interviews further confirmed under hydroponic systems. However, the study also identified several challenges, including higher initial costs, and limited access to local expertise. Despite these constraints, hydroponics showed strong potential as a climate- resilient and resource- efficient farming approach. The findings suggest that hydroponic systems can play a critical role in enhancing sustainable agricultural, improving livelihoods, and strengthening food security in water- scarce conflict- affected regions such as Palestine.
