Peripheral agricultural areas face two major pressures: industrial and urban. Palou (Granollers, Barcelona) is no exception. Similarly, many areas suffer or have suffered irrigation restrictions due to drought, impacting crops. These two variables, physical space and water scarcity, were the main reasons for the HydroMixt project.
Designed through an interdisciplinary approach, a system has been created that combines two types of irrigation (drip irrigation in solid substrate and hydroponics) with potential savings in space, water consumption, and energy (it can be powered by a battery and solar panel). All of this is regulated by sensors and a dedicated app.
Given the need for a viable product, the aim is for it to adhere to the circular economy model, be autonomous and easy to assemble, and feature a modular structure with 3D-printed parts so that users are not required to purchase the entire product, thus extending its lifespan. Various socioeconomic variables have been studied to ultimately determine its viability.
It is currently a functional prototype. In a meeting with local and regional businesses, farmers from the study area, and the Granollers City Council, interest in the proposal was confirmed. This interest does not preclude its implementation, primarily focused on small urban gardens and/or greenhouses. The complete project can be accessed through the HydroMixt website.
