BrightFarm Systems took on the task to design and set up a demo-sized, green urban greenhouse at the new Whole Foods Market store in Millburn, New Jersey. This project highlights a push toward fresh, local food right in city spots.
Whole Foods Market holds sustainable farming and smart environmental steps as key parts of its mission. The company backs local farmers across the Northeast and in other areas. For years, they have worked to connect shoppers with products from nearby sources. This helps cut down on transport miles and boosts farm economies. In the Northeast, where weather can challenge crops, such support matters a lot.
The greenhouse setup aims to grow top-notch, fresh herbs on site. These herbs go into prepared foods at the store, like salads and meals from the deli. Some also hit the shelves for customers to buy. This means shoppers see and pick herbs grown just steps away. It cuts the time from farm to table, keeping flavors strong and nutrients high.
At the heart of BrightFarm’s plan sits the EzGro system. It uses modern hydroponics that recirculate water to save resources. Hydroponics means growing plants without soil, in nutrient-rich water instead. This method uses up to 90% less water than traditional dirt farming. It also skips pesticides often needed in soil setups.
In this build, BrightFarm placed rows of tall growing towers along the store’s front windows. This choice maximizes natural sunlight for the plants. The towers stack greens upward, fitting more crops into tight spaces. Herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro thrive in these setups. They get steady light, water, and nutrients without wasting room. Such designs answer common worries about urban space limits and energy use in greenhouses. Overall, the project shows how stores can blend eco-friendly farming into daily operations.