Lettuce learn: an overview of the use of hydroponic shipping container farms in schools

Abstract

The integration of Controlled Environment Agriculture, especially Hydroponic Shipping Container Farms (HSCFs), represents a useful approach to improve experiential learning opportunities for secondary students. Those systems can address common challenges in school environments, including space constraints, access to nutritious foods and their associated health outcomes, and broader concerns related to environmental sustainability. Despite those advantages, effective utilization of these facilities is often restricted by multiple factors, most notably insufficient curricular integration and support. The purpose of this report is to provide an overview of the current literature on the implementation of hydroponic systems in educational settings, with a focus on large-scale operations such as HSCFs. Furthermore, three case studies of school districts actively employing these systems are examined to evaluate implementation strategies and outcomes. Findings indicate that HSCFs can positively influence student learning, engagement, and well-being. However, successful implementation requires financial and systemic support that is underestimated at the district level. Overall, while adopting HSCFs in schools is both feasible and beneficial, their long-term success depends on clearly defined program objectives and sustained institutional commitment to meet student needs effectively.