Farming of the future : an innovative eco-sustainable project for Malta

Abstract

Introduction: This research study takes the form of a project proposal of how Malta could increase its attractiveness and market share with regards to the fast growing sector of agritourism. The following are the research questions that this study is opting to answer. Primary research question: How can Malta increase its agritourism market share? Secondary research question: How can Malta increase its attractiveness for agritourism, whilst addressing issues in agriculture? Project Proposal Concept Brief: The proposed project is that of a multi-story level complex as an innovative agritourism attraction in Malta. The complex’s main attraction is the cultivation of produce using a vertical farming concept. An innovative way of farming which bridges current gaps in agriculture. The secondary attractions are a food market with local produce, traditional farming methods, an interactive centre, research and development hub, conference and lecture centre, storage and packaging unit, food stalls, and a Michelin star restaurant that caters using local produce. Further on in this research, one will conclude various agricultural benefits that such a project would contribute to the Maltese Islands, following themes such as food security, sustainability, green infrastructure development, innovation in agriculture, urban and rural development and EU Funding. This project aims to bridge current agricultural gaps in Malta, meanwhile creating a tourist attraction which is a pivotal step for the viability of an innovative niche agritourism. The return on investment of this project is not to be narrowed down to the revenues that are made from the attraction itself, but the collective return that this sustainable project will give to Malta. Such a project would be a marketing display of innovative and traditional 8 agriculture, seemingly creating a landmark that places Malta on the map for eco-tourism, agricultural, sustainable, innovative and gastronomic tourism. Benefits of this study: The benefits of this study is to put forward issues in agriculture and innovative ways of how Malta can overcome agricultural gaps that are refraining it from growing, whilst gathering enough data and information to conclude the viability of the project proposal in all the relative sectors. To address the importance of creating new attractions in Malta that give a higher value-added experience to visitors.