Researchers in North Yorkshire are testing whether disused mines could provide a lower-energy alternative to conventional vertical farming.
More than 1km underground at Boulby mine, a partnership between the University of Sheffield and Farm Urban is growing crops including pak choi and lettuce in vertical towers.
The project aims to establish whether underground spaces can produce consistent, marketable crops while reducing the energy demands associated with indoor farming.
Researchers are using the mine’s stable environment and existing infrastructure to assess the potential.
The trials come as extreme weather raises concerns about food production. Dry and hot conditions across England this summer have damaged crops and reduced available grazing for livestock.
The mine hosts the underground farming project alongside scientific research facilities. The site is the world’s only commercial producer of polyhalite, a mineral used as fertiliser.
Researchers say the trials will provide real-world evidence on whether underground farming could become a viable option for future food production.
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