Overall feasibility and sustainability assessment of vertical farming in emerging economies

Vertical farming is gaining attention from investors and international organizations as a new sector of agri-food business that can ensure elevate urban food production while consuming less resources such as land and water. While the technology is mostly spreading in richer countries, it is currently debated whether this form of agriculture may represent an opportunity also in emerging economies. The study aims to assess the feasibility and sustainability of vertical farming investment in countries characterized by emerging economy, through the integration of a tool for analysis of environmental, economic and social indicators. In particular, the study was based on a sample of countries identified by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), a financial institution using investments to build market economies, mostly located in East European and Southern or Eastern Mediterranean regions. Among targeted countries, the tool identified Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Slovenia and Turkey as the best options for vertical farming feasibility and sustainability.