STEM: The ABLE Project: Aquaponics

At Shelley College we would like to launch a ‘global dimension’ project to establish sustainable hydroponics for third world countries.

Our STEM students created nutrient rich medium for growing plants using liquid fertilisers, so that the Koi fish are returned to a more suitable aquatic habitat. We hope to grow herbs, salad leaves and strawberries next summer for our school lunches.

Working with the University of Sterling we are keen to investigate the feasibility of much larger hydroponics systems. Fish can be grown quickly and can be harvested (eaten) as they are a high source of protein. A wide variety of crops can be grown using nutrient rich water from fish waste.

The project is in it’s infancy and we have much to learn about the biochemistry involved but we will endeavour to analyse a variety of essential nutrients and take precise measurements to ensure maximum growth rates.

Watch the video below:

More Information about STEM:

What is STEM:
The STEM project is designed to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. This two year project creates opportunities for young people to reach their potential in all subjects, but increasingly we see the STEM subjects as a key to improving a range of other essential skills such as ingenuity, problem solving, practical ability and resilience.

Expectations:
There is a substantial commitment required to attend at least 30 hours of STEM sessions.
The programme is well funded by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) to ensure we achieve our stated aims.
We expect you to be motivated, keen to take on a challenge and have a willingness to improve your knowledge and skills.

The Global Challange:
The Able Project would like to commission students at Shelley College to research the feasibility of introducing Aquaponics in Nepal. Jiban Karki, Executive Director of Phase Nepal visited the UK recently to see how the work of ABLE can be adapted and implemented in Nepal to help the poorest communities. ABLE are keen to develop an Aquaponic system of food production to grow fresh fish and vegetables cheaply.

International development agencies in Nepal are seriously concerned about an acute food shortage in several hill and mountain districts in the western region of the Himalayan area. Food production from farming in these districts barely lasts six months each year. But now the situation has become much worse with significantly less food being produced, recent assessments show.