Bioengineers in the Netherlands are investigating the possibilities of “sunless” farming as an answer to world hunger. With food prices skyrocketing, the scientists are trying to eliminate some of the variables associated with agriculture, such as droughts, climate, and high energy costs. Their approach is to move farming indoors, where growing conditions can be optimized.

The researchers are growing fruits, vegetables and other plants under LED lighting in a climate-controlled environment. By tinkering with the lights, soil and nourishment they have had some dramatic results. For example, in the lab they can raise plants to maturity three times faster than in a traditional greenhouse. No pesticides are needed, and only a tenth the amount of water is used compared to outdoor farming. By layering the plants, a 1,000 sq. ft. building could provide 7 ounces of fresh fruits and vegetables every day to every person in a city of 140,000 people.