It’s amazing how a crisis catalyzes innovation. The classic example of this is war. World War II produced amazing advancements in aviation, electronics, nuclear power, and manufacturing that might not have occurred for decades without that worldwide conflict it, if at all.
Other crises can spur innovation as well. The recent pandemic for example is notable for the impact that Covid had on virtual meetings, and work from home. In the case of Covid, a “second order” effect of work from has been the emptying out of office buildings. Office usage nationwide is hovering at 50% of pre-pandemic levels.
Many initially hoped that these structures might be repurposed as apartments and condos. Unfortunately, most were designed in a way that makes such conversions impractical and cost prohibitive. Many may be shut down or foreclosed on by lenders unless an alternative use can be found. How can the owners of these building turn “lemons into lemonade”
Maybe, by moving from “cubicles to cucumbers ?”
A recent article in Smithsonian shares an innovative solution: Vertical farming….or converting vacant office buildings into multi-level indoor agricultural enterprises. “When executed correctly, vertical farming can yield as much produce as traditional farming methods in urban areas and smaller spaces. Additionally, vertical farmers say they gain the added benefit of consistent, year-round production without the uncertainties of climate or pests, all while utilizing up to 95 percent less water than a traditional farm.”
Even if you have no interest in farming, this article is a great lesson in innovation at its best. Spend a few minutes learning how “Empty Office Buildings Are Being Turned Into Vertical Farms.”
