A Closer Look is The National's show where we take an in-depth look at one of the main stories of the week.
Science-led farming is being used to breed sheep that are suited to the warmer Gulf environment.
It promises to transform the rearing of livestock and improve animal welfare by reducing the need for live importing, while at the same time reducing the carbon footprint of importation.
Farmers in the UAE plan to breed grass-fed Australian White sheep, monitoring their health with the latest technology, and provide residents with affordable lamb sourced locally.
The National reporter Nick Webster speaks to host Sarah Forster about the future of sustainable farming in the Emirates.
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UAE-reared lambs highlight the future of sustainable livestock farming
UAE outlines plan to increase domestic food production and consumption
UAE Vertical Farm - in pictures
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Sean Lee, director of Smart Acres, at the hydroponics farm at the Armed Forces Officers Club, Abu Dhabi, which produces lettuce and leafy greens for sale in UAE supermarkets. Victor Besa / The National -
Lettuce is grown in converted shipping containers. Victor Besa / The National -
The produce grown using hydroponics. Victor Besa / The National -
Sean Lee, director of the Smart Acres hydroponics farm. We want it to be commercially viable, he said.Victor Besa / The National -
The farm is spread across eight converted shipping containers. Victor Besa / The National -
The UAE’s newest vertical farm, Smart Acres, has started operation. All photos courtesy Smart Acres -
The company collaborated with n.thing, a Korean-based technology company, to design the farm modules. -
Smart Acres grows fresh produce for UAE residents and businesses. -
Smart Acres says its system not only consumes less resources but generates ultra-high quality crops. -
Smart Acres was founded to improve food security in the UAE and develop the country’s farming capabilities. -
Smart Acres is in talks with hypermarkets and government entities to expand their distribution of produce across the country.
