Zero Hunger
Wasted food in one part of the world and hunger in another. First of all, it is about global inefficiency. On the one hand, one-third of food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted. On the other hand, there are nearly 820 million people who suffer from hunger worldwide. Not going too far, many of these families are living in Gyumri Domiks.
Technologies and unsustainable behavior: hotspots of food loss and waste
Food loss and waste are related to the lack of technologies and unsustainable consumption habits. In poor and developing countries food waste is generated in the process of production and storage, as modern technologies are not accessible. This is the case for Armenia. While, in rich societies, food waste is a result of unsustainable consumption from markets to plates.
Unproductive agriculture of Armenia and need for innovations
While the agricultural sector remains essential for the economy of Armenia (14.9 % of GDP as of 2017) more and more young people are losing their interest to get involved. The reason is low labor productivity and low incomes of farmers, as there is no access to modern technologies. Bringing innovation to the sector will create job opportunities and increase productivity to produce more without waste.
Moreover, the intensive use of pesticides and climate change creates additional obstacles resulting in soil salinization. More lands are at the expense of biodiversity. Thus, there is a need to promote sustainable agriculture models.
Regeneration of agriculture in The Distrikt
The goal of The Distrikt is to incorporate modern technologies in agriculture to increase the efficiency of the sector, avoid waste and make the field more attractive for investment.
IoT-based aquaponics system
Great solutions to avoid land use while producing food are hydroponics and aquaponics. IoT – based aquaponics and hydroponics systems are one of the flagship technologies of The Distrikt for sustainable food production. The simplified system that is possible to control with smartphones will be affordable for large-scale use. In arid regions as Shirak marz, it is a great solution to produce food while preserving the soil.
Biogas from organic waste to receive energy
Nothings to end up in landfills! Organic food waste from in The Distrikt and organic matter produced in adjacent communities and industries will be used for biogas production, as a clean energy source. The biogas produced will be used in the residential buildings and for the greenhouses.
SDG 2: Zero Hunger
The Distrikt contributes to the SDG 2 Zero Hunger. The goal is to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.
