Polydome

Polycultures are groups of interacting plants that use space and nutrients to maximum effect. Polydome maximizes food production by relying on these symbiotic biological relationships. These have been found through intensive research and correlated in a database featuring over 500 species. Different species help each other by boosting growth and protection against pests. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) introduces beneficial insect that support a functional ecosystem. The result is a healthy and self-maintaining soil ecosystem. A diverse ecosystem is also vastly more resilient than single-crop production. These crop clusters are modular elements that allow many functional combinations. They can be mixed and matched depending on the desired output of the greenhouse and local market demand.

Polydome systems aim to reach zero-waste operations. Plant waste is reused as mulch, compost, or fish feed, while animal wastes are processed into plant nutrient supplements. Mushroom cultivation, chickens, and composting provide supplemental CO2. The hydroponic system cycles water efficiently and water treatment ensures sparse water use. The Polydome uses passive design to cycle water and air. Other energy facilities can be used as heat providers.

Polydome outsmarts conventional, material intense shading designs. Instead, shade-loving plants are intercropped below plants with a high demand for direct sunlight, thereby enhancing both plants’ health and productivity. By combining different plant sizes, the roots of plants reach various depths in the soil. Excess irrigation water can be used at lower levels and deep-rooted trees do not depend on constant irrigation.

Agricultural innovations are harmonically integrated in the Polydome system to reach maximum efficiency both in terms of energy and material input as well as harvest. Aquaponics create a close-loop system between aquaculture and crops. LED lighting has shown to increase plant productivity while minimizing electricity requirements. The Polydome is apt for other technology applications and can operate as a living lab for agricultural innovations.

Polydome can be integrated with a variety of functions that serve the community. Polydome systems are designed for the location and context. They can be combined with an experience centre, educational programs, food processing facility, restaurants, retail, and even nursing homes.