René Papier runs a mini-farm with so-called microgreens in the centre of Dortmund. On about 45 square metres, a wide variety of seedlings grow on shelves above each other. Every week, Papier supplies around 25 restaurants and subscription customers. However, the lease on his mini-farm was terminated effective at the end of the year. "Of course we want to stay in Dortmund and are looking intensively for new premises. But it's difficult," he told WDR.
"I think it's a huge problem that we plan our cities but don't plan where our food comes from. We need to bring food closer to the consumer again," he says. Regional food is an important building block for climate protection, sustainability, and health. It is no coincidence that Papier sees a lot of potential in this, especially in Dortmund. The city recently received 1.1 million euros in funding for the promotion of regional and sustainable food. The Vertifarm trade fair, which showcases innovations in the field of vertical farming, has been held in Dortmund every year since 2022.
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