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greenhouse gas emissions , and can be integrated into urban environments . Residential complexes could utilise engineering principles to create selfsustaining ecosystems that benefit both residents and the environment .
Several visits to the project site were conducted between April 2023 and May 2023 to take measurements and design the aquaculture system .
The AquaBAE system was designed to be efficient , sustainable , and easy to maintain , ensuring long-term viability . This project used recirculating aquaculture systems , where the systems continuously filter and recycle water , maintaining optimal conditions for fish growth while minimising water usage ( Figure 1 ). Advanced filtration units remove waste and toxins , ensuring a clean and healthy environment for the fish . The integrated aquaponics systems also combine aquaculture with hydroponics and use fish waste as a natural fertiliser for growing plants . The plants , in turn , help to purify the water , creating a symbiotic relationship that maximises resource use and minimises waste .
collaborative efforts throughout this project also enhance community spirit and cohesion .
Part of this project was funded by the Seremban City Council , and , remarkably , Kebun Komuniti Suria Residences won the Diamond Award under category 7 : Urban Farming at the Malaysian Institute of Planners ( MIP ) MyPlace Awards in 2023 . The success of AquaBAE at Suria Residences serves as an inspiring model for other urban communities . It demonstrates how innovative engineering solutions can be harnessed to create sustainable , self-sufficient ecosystems within residential complexes . As more communities adopt similar initiatives , the collective impact on urban sustainability and food security could be profound .
Figure 2 : The AquaBAE programme ended with a photoshoot of participants , students and lecturers .
BAEGROW Project at Taman Suria Tropika
Figure 1 : AquaBAE system installed at the Kebun Komuniti Suria Residences .
Through this AquaBAE programme , good relationships were established between the community at Suria Residences , Pajam and the UPM students and staff ( see Figure 2 ). In addition , the involvement of the students in making this project a success improved their soft skills such as teamwork and entrepreneurship . By initiating these types of agriculture projects , communities can produce fresh , nutritious food on-site and provide residents with access to healthy , locallygrown food , promoting better nutrition and overall well-being . The social interactions and
BAEGROW is a community programe implemented under the course ECV3011 , aimed at developing urban agriculture in Taman Suria Tropika , Selangor . This innovative project ran from May 6 to June 10 , 2023 , involving active participation from students , lecturers , and assistant engineers . BAEGROW epitomises the collaboration between DBAE ’ s students and the Taman Suria Tropika community , working together to integrate natural elements into urban agriculture and foster sustainable farming practices in urban settings .
The primary objectives of BAEGROW include enhancing the existing hydroponic system and incorporating advanced technological solutions to improve urban agriculture . The programme leverages the engineering skills
68 VOL 99 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2024