SUSTAINABLE HYDROPONICS SYSTEM: SMART IRRIGATION FOR PLANTS

A Research Proposal

Presented to the Faculty of

Senior High School

Bataraza National High School

Bataraza Palawan

Buscaino, Mary Kate B.

Dampulas, Charmine S.

Marquina, Lyza Jel M.

Satera, Devine Grace B.

SUSTAINABLE HYDROPONIC SYSTEM: SMART IRRIGATION FOR PLANT
Chapter 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Background of the study
Agriculture is facing unprecedented challenges, including soil degradation, water
scarcity, and climate change." Conventional agricultural practices have led to soil erosion,
nutrient depletion, and decreased crop yields, compromising global food security. The alarming
rate of land degradation and soil salinization has severe implications for agricultural productivity,
biodiversity, and ecosystem services. To address these challenges, sustainable hydroponics
systems offer a promising alternative, enabling farmers to cultivate crops efficiently, reduce
water consumption, and minimize environmental impact. By adopting hydroponics, agriculture
can transition towards a more sustainable, productive, and resilient future.
Agriculture is the leading source of pollution in many countries. Pesticides, fertilizers and
other toxic farm chemicals can poison fresh water, marine ecosystems, air and soil. They also can
remain in the environment for generations. Many pesticides are suspected of disrupting the
hormonal systems of people and wildlife. Fertilizer run-off impacts waterways and coral reel.
The agricultural sector consumes about 69 percent of the planet's fresh water. Without creative
conservation measures in place, agricultural production consumes excessive water and degrades
water quality. This adversely impacts freshwater systems throughout the world.
Over time all the impacts of the loose sand on the rocks start to make the rocks chip away
and erode. Wind erosion is obviously more common in windy areas. Let us take it back to earth
science. Erosion is the action of surface processes such as wind that remove soil, rock, or
dissolved material from one location on the Earth’s crust and then transports it to another
location. Wind erosion can be caused by a light wind that rolls soil particles along the surface
through to a strong wind that lifts a large volume of soil particles into the air to create dust
storms. As wind erosion is the wind-forced entertainment, transportation, and deposition of soil
particles it causes devastating global environmental degradation through the movement of fine
nutrient-rich surface soil particles to water bodies, air, and other land surfaces. This in turn
decreases cropland productivity and increases the risk to human life. Wind erosion also impairs
soil properties such as structure, moisture content, and organic matter, and it is enhanced by the
lack of vegetation on the soil surface.
 In Europe, approximately 17.3 million hectares of agricultural land are susceptible to
moderate wind erosion, while around 8.8 million hectares are at high risk . This can lead to
substantial economic losses for farmers due to reduced crop yields and lower market value. For
instance, in Denmark, Bulgaria, and Romania, over 25% of agricultural land is highly susceptible
to wind erosion, resulting in significant financial burdens on local farmers . To mitigate these
effects, sustainable agricultural practices and soil conservation strategies are essential to
minimize the impact of wind erosion on agricultural productivity.
Agriculture remains a significant threat to agricultural lands worldwide. In Europe,
approximately 17.3 million hectares of agricultural land are susceptible to moderate wind
erosion, while around 8.8 million hectares are at high risk . This can lead to substantial economic
losses for farmers due to reduced crop yields and lower market value. For instance, in Denmark,
Bulgaria, and Romania, over 25% of agricultural land is highly susceptible to wind erosion,
resulting in significant financial burdens on local farmers . To mitigate these effects, sustainable
agricultural practices and soil conservation strategies are essential to minimize the impact of
wind erosion on agricultural productivity .According to Pasquale borrelli et al., (2014)
Wind erosion significantly threatens global vegetable production, especially in dry lands.
Research in northwestern China (Agronomy, 2020) showed that no-till farming with wheat straw
retention drastically reduced wind erosion. Conventional tillage practices, in contrast, led to
greater soil loss. Sustainable farming methods are crucial for protecting vegetable crops from
wind damage. These methods, including crop rotation and conservation tillage, improve soil
health and boost yields. Addressing wind erosion is vital for ensuring global food security.
It poses a significant threat to vegetable production across Asia, impacting food security
and livelihoods in many regions. A 2018 study by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the
United Nations (FAO) highlighted the vulnerability of Asian agricultural lands to wind erosion,
particularly in the drylands of Central Asia and the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The increasing
frequency and intensity of droughts, exacerbated by climate change, are worsening the problem.
For example, in the Loess Plateau of China, wind erosion has historically caused severe land
degradation, impacting vegetable farming communities. In Mongolia, desertification and wind
erosion are major challenges, affecting the productivity of vegetable farms and pastoral lands.
Estimates suggest that millions of hectares of Asian farmland are affected annually, leading to
decreased yields and economic losses for farmers. Addressing this issue requires integrated
approaches combining sustainable land management practices, drought-resistant crop varieties,
and improved irrigation techniques.
 Agriculture faces a multitude of challenges, including climate change, resource depletion,
and food insecurity. As a result, innovative and sustainable solutions are urgently needed to
ensure a secure and stable food supply for a growing global population. Hydroponics, a soil less
cultivation method, presents a compelling solution to these pressing challenges. By eliminating
the need for soil and delivering nutrients directly to plant roots, hydroponics significantly
reduces water usage, potentially by up to 90% compared to traditional farming (Rajaseger, G., et
al., 2023). When combined with smart farming technologies, such as the Internet of Things
(IoT), sensors, and automation, hydroponics allows for continuous monitoring of plant health
and optimized resource use, minimizing waste and maximizing yields (Zee, C., Antunez, 2024).
This approach enhances crop output, accelerate growth, and maintain ideal conditions year-
round, regardless of weather or environmental factors (Boylan, C., 2020).
Moreover, hydroponic systems decrease the need for chemical inputs, promote
environmentally safe pest management, and reduce waste production, contributing to more
resilient and localized food production (Rajaseger, G., et al., 2023). Hydroponics can also
improve food security in urban areas and regions with poor soil quality, offering fresh, local
produce and potentially higher yields compared to traditional methods (Rajaseger, G., et al.,
2023). While challenges exist, such as initial costs and technical knowledge, hydroponics
presents a crucial feature of contemporary farming, offering increased efficiency, sustainability,
and productivity (de Sousa, R., et al., 2024).

Statement of the Problem

The main goal of the project is to provide Bataraza National High School with a
sustainable and efficient garden space.
The general objective of this project is to provide project that help lessen several challenges in
agriculture.
Specifically, this project helps the Agriculture students in the following ways:
1. Improves the planting area for Agriculture Students, making it easier to maintain and manage.
2. Provides a controlled environment that promotes healthy plant growth and reduces pest
infestations.
3. Offers hands-on learning opportunities for students in sustainable agriculture practices,
including hydroponics and automated irrigation.
4. Encourages a sense of responsibility and ownership among students for the garden space.
Objectives of the Study
The main goal of this project is to provide Bataraza National High School with a
sustainable and efficient garden space that:
1. Improves the planting area for Agriculture students, making it easier to maintain and manage.
2. Provides a controlled environment that promotes healthy plant growth and reduces pest
infestations.
3. Offers hands-on learning opportunities for students in sustainable agriculture practices,
including hydroponics and automated irrigation.
4. Encourages a sense of responsibility and ownership among students for the garden space.

Significance of the Study

This study focused on the investigation of sustainable hydroponics systems, aims to
provide valuable insights into this innovative agricultural practice and its potential to address
critical challenges. The research is expected to be beneficial to the following:
School Administrators. The study can demonstrate the potential of hydroponics for optimizing
resource use, particularly water and land, which can be especially relevant for schools with
limited resources. This knowledge can inform decisions regarding water management and land
allocation for agricultural activities.
Educators. The study can provide educators with valuable information to enrich their curriculum,
incorporating hydroponics into agricultural. This can create engaging and practical learning
experiences for students, connecting classroom knowledge to real-world applications.
Students (Agriculture). Exploration of Innovative Technology: The research can expose students
to the exciting world of hydroponics, an innovative and rapidly evolving technology. This can
spark their interest in agricultural science, sustainability, and technological advancements.
Researchers. The study can add valuable insights to the growing body of knowledge on
sustainable hydroponics systems. This can serve as a foundation for further research, exploring
new technologies, addressing challenges, and advancing the field of hydroponics.
Operational Definition of Terms
For clarity and better understanding, the following variables are defined in the context of how
they were used in the study.
Hydroponic Gardening System - a soilless method of cultivating plants, utilizing a nutrient-rich
water solution to deliver essential nutrients directly to the plant roots.
Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) - NFT is a hydroponic system where a thin film of nutrient-rich
water flows over the bare roots of plants, providing essential nutrients for growth."
Deep Water Culture (DWC)- Deep Water Culture is a hydroponic system where plant roots are
suspended in a nutrient-rich water solution, allowing continuous oxygenation and nutrient
absorption.
Aeroponics- is a hydroponic method that suspends plants in an air or mist environment, with
nutrient-rich water delivered in the form of fine droplets to the roots.
pH Level- pH level measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. In hydroponics, maintaining
the correct pH level is crucial for optimal nutrient absorption by plants.
Nutrient Solution- A nutrient solution is a liquid mixture containing essential minerals and
nutrients needed for plant growth in hydroponic systems.
Drip System- A drip system is a hydroponic irrigation method where nutrient solution is
delivered to plant roots through a network of tubes and emitters.
Hydroponic Farming- Hydroponic farming refers to the cultivation of crops without soil, using
various hydroponic systems to provide water, nutrients, and support for plant growth.
Vertical Farming- Vertical farming involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers or
vertically inclined surfaces, often implemented in hydroponic or aeroponic systems to maximize
space utilization." Substrate- The material in which the plant roots grow (can be a growing
medium or just water).
Reservoir- A container that holds the nutrient solution. It's usually made of food-grade plastic.
Ebb and Flow (Flood and Drain)- A hydroponic system where a reservoir of nutrient solution
periodically floods a growing tray, then drains back into the reservoir. This method provides both
nutrient delivery and drainage.
Glue/Fastener- Materials used to assemble parts of Hydroponic.
Paint/Decorative elements- Materials used for the aesthetic enhancement of Hydroponic
Recyclable Plastic Cup For plant pots.
 Chapter II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Hydroponics, a soilless cultivation system, gaining interest as it reduces the dependency
on agricultural land, and pesticides, and can be implemented in areas with poor soil quality, thus
mitigating the negative effects of extreme weather events.Furthermore, it emphasizes that by
enduring significant reforms in soilless food production systems (particularly for potatoes), the
food supply of a rapidly growing population can be addressed. Since hydroponics systems are
productive and easily automated without soil and optimal environmental conditions, future
hydroponics farming is promising. In conclusion, the hydroponics system provides better yield
and crop productivity by saving water, energy, and space. Henceforth, it can be the alternate
choice for modern sustainable agriculture. Sasireka Rajendran et al., (2024)
Instead of soil, plants receive a nutrient-rich water solution directly, providing them with
the essential elements they need for growth. This method has several advantages, including better
control over nutrient levels, more efficient use of water, and the ability to grow plants in areas
with poor soil qualityT. Woznicki et al(2021)
The innovations in hydroponics technologies are a blessing for the hydroponic growers.
Unlike traditional soil-based firming, hydroponic systems can work within a limited space.
Besides, the latest innovations and technologies like vertical farming, artificial intelligence, NFT,
CEA, Hydroponics Robotics, and smart sensors have streamlined the operation of the
hydroponics growing method. indoor gardening and industrial cultivation, which will probably
outperform traditional cultivation in the near future. Md (Mosaddekur Rahman 2025)
Hydroponic farming is opted for in several parts of the world. It is a soil-free and
nutrient-rich water medium for agriculture, which is increasingly opted for by the urban
population. Hydroponic farming has been vastly explored in the context of urban farming, where
land, water, time, and labour are required in a limited amount, yet productivity is far better
compared to traditional agricultural methods.( Supriya Jaiswal et al.,2025)
Integrating water reuse into the core water governance frameworks and concurrently
reduces the water footprint of food production. The proposed research project also presents a
blueprint for food safety policies for the protection of human health. The concept of hydroponic
cultivation systems could be integrated into the vertical farming, to support the sustainability of
food-water security, land usage, and publich health.( Y.N. Chow et al., 2017)
 According to Lilyk Eka Suranny, Evi Gravitiani, and Mugi Rahardjo (2022), the climate
change can cause a decline in agricultural production and even crop failure, leading to significant
losses for farmers and compromising their welfare, food security, and livelihood. Moreover, this
highlights the need for innovative agricultural methods.
One such method is hydroponics, which involves growing plants without soil using
water-based mineral nutrient solutions. As noted by Hadinata A. (2021), hydroponics offers
several benefits, including controlled environment and nutrients, water conservation, and
reduced labor.
Hydroponics allows for precise control over environmental conditions, such as
temperature and pH balance, maximizing the plant's exposure to essential nutrients and water.
Consequently, this leads to healthier and higher-quality produce (Brahlek A., 2023).
Hydroponics minimizes many risk factors associated with traditional gardening, such as
soil-borne diseases and pests. This method also addresses consumer demand for environmentally
friendly produce, driven by concerns about the link between conventional agriculture and
chronic diseases (Kris et al., 2002).
In contrast to traditional soil-based farming, hydroponics delivers nutrients directly to
plant roots via a nutrient-rich water solution. As a result, this soilless approach offers several key
advantages, including optimized plant growth, reduced risk of soil-borne diseases, and increased
water efficiency (Trejo-Téllez and Gómez-Merino, 2012).
The versatility of hydroponics makes it suitable for diverse environments, including areas
with limited arable land. Additionally, hydroponics reduces reliance on human labor and lowers
operational costs, minimizing the environmental impact of traditional farming practices (Naik,
2012; Naik et al., 2013).
Ultimately, the compact nature, efficient water use, and year-round production
capabilities of hydroponics make it particularly advantageous in space-constrained environments
(Goenka, 2018).
Hydroponics offers a controlled and efficient growing environment, revolutionizing plant
cultivation (Hughes, 2017). This method addresses consumer demand for environmentally
friendly produce, driven by concerns about the link between conventional agriculture and
chronic diseases (Kris et al., 2002).
Unlike traditional soil-based farming, hydroponics delivers nutrients directly to plant
roots via a nutrient-rich water solution. This soilless approach offers several key advantages:
optimized plant growth, reduced risk of soil-borne diseases, and increased water efficiency
through nutrient solution recycling (Trejo-Téllez and Gómez-Merino, 2012).
 It minimizes soil erosion and water pollution, saving time and resources while producing
healthier crops. The versatility of hydroponics makes it suitable for diverse environments,
including areas with limited arable land, such as mountainous regions, deserts, or even space
stations. Its growing popularity in developing and developed nations highlights its potential to
address food security challenges in regions with insufficient land or water resources.
Furthermore, hydroponics reduces reliance on human labor and lowers operational costs,
minimizing the environmental impact of traditional farming practices (Naik, 2012; Naik et al.,
2013). The system's compact nature, efficient water use, and year-round production capabilities
make it particularly advantageous in space-constrained environments (Goenka, 2018).
 Chapter III
METHODOLOGY
This chapter outlines the materials used, the procedure of building, and process of testing
and evaluation.
I. Materials and Equipment
II. Procedure: The procedure of building Sustainable Hydroponic System tools is divided into
several stages: Planning, Building, and Testing.

(STAGE 1) PLANNING AND DESIGNING: DAY 1

I. Starting on the creation and planning of our tool.
II. Research on the development and process of creation.
III. Create a design where parts will be placed once.
(STAGE 2) GATHERING COMPONENTS: DAY 2
Gather necessary materials such as:
* Pipes
* Male scraw adaptors
* Bends
* Conduit pipes
* T piece
* End cups
* Submersible water pump
* Clear tubing
* PVC weld glue
* Store-bought trestle
* Gutter Brackets
(STAGE 3) ASSEMBLY DAY: DAY 3-4
I. Preparation of Materials: We cut and shaped pipes, and assembled trestle.
II. Creation: We started to assemble pipes, bends, conduit pipe, and gutter bracket to the trestle.
III. Assembling: We started forming our hydroponics, put some water in container this includes
all the materials needed.
(STAGE 4) TESTING DAY: DAY 5-7
Tests: Testing our hydroponics functionality with different materials for it water plants.
 Chapter IV
BIBLIOGRAPHY

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