Emerging and Disruptive Technologies for Urban Farming: A Review and Assessment

<p dir="ltr">Increasing food demand in urban areas compounded with unsustainable conventional farming practices and reducing arable land has led to the development of urban farming. Urban farming techniques include vertical farming, indoor farming, hydroponics, aeroponics, aquaculture, and aquaponics. However, these methods alone cannot revolutionise farming; hence, they need to be coupled with technological innovations to reap their full potential and benefits. This paper reviews a variety of emerging and disruptive technologies introduced to urban farming, namely internet of things, automation, artificial intelligence, robotics, blockchain, digital twins, renewable energy, genetic modification, additive manufacturing, and nanotechnology. Each technology is discussed with regard to its applications, advantages, and disadvantages. Recommendations are also provided for future research and development.</p>