The World On Wheels tour recently made a stop in sunny Sebring, Florida, where we met an inspiring individual who is literally rolling towards a sustainable future. Richard Leclair, a skateboarder with a green thumb and a passion for the environment, opened our eyes to the wonders of aquaponics.
Aquaponics is the art of combining aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics (growing plants in water). It’s like having a small ecosystem in your backyard, where the fish and plants help each other grow. Richard shared the simple yet effective idea of a self-sustaining aquaponics garden and how it could contribute to ending the climate crisis.
The Basics of Aquaponics
So, what’s the magic behind aquaponics? It’s a beautiful cycle:
- Fish produce waste: When you feed your fish, they produce waste that’s high in nutrients.
- Plants thrive on nutrients: The water (and all the nutrients in it) gets pumped up to the plants. They absorb these nutrients, which helps them grow.
- Plants clean the water: In the process, the plants clean the water by absorbing the nutrients.
- Clean water goes back to the fish: The clean water then goes back into the fish tank, and the cycle continues.
It’s a win-win for both the fish and the plants! Plus, it uses a fraction of the water traditional farming does.
Where to Start Your Aquaponics Adventure
You don’t need to be a scientist to start an aquaponics system. Here’s how you can begin:
- Select a Suitable Spot: Ideally, somewhere with access to sunlight and protection from extreme weather. A greenhouse is perfect.
- Get the Gear: You’ll need a fish tank, a grow bed for the plants, a water pump, and some piping.
- Choose Your Fish and Plants: Tilapia or goldfish are great beginner fish. For plants, try leafy greens, herbs, or even tomatoes.
- Cycle and Monitor: Before adding fish, you’ll need to cycle the water to ensure it’s ready. Once your system is up and running, keep an eye on pH levels and the health of your fish and plants.
As for where in the U.S., aquaponics is versatile. It’s excellent in areas where soil might not be ideal for traditional farming. With a greenhouse, you can control the environment, so even colder states can have a thriving aquaponics system.
Skaters Ending the Climate Crisis
Now, how do we connect this back to the skateboarding community? Well, skaters are known for their tenacity, creativity, and dedication – the very qualities needed to address climate change.
Skaters like Richard are leading the way by taking action in their own backyards. Imagine if more skaters and individuals embraced sustainable practices like aquaponics, creating a ripple effect in their communities. We could collectively lower our carbon footprints and contribute to a more sustainable world.
The World On Wheels tour is all about empowering individuals to take ownership of the climate crisis. It’s not just up to the governments or corporations; it’s up to us. Whether you’re a skater grinding rails or a gardener tending to your crops, we can all make a difference.
Richard’s aquaponics garden is more than a hobby; it’s a testament to the power of individual action. Let’s follow his lead and roll towards a greener, more sustainable future.
To learn more about Richard and see him in action, check out this awesome video: World on Wheels meets Richard Leclair
Do you have your own eco-friendly solutions or stories to share? Connect with us and join the community in ending the climate crisis.
Skaters on a Roll: Aquaponics and the Quest to End the Climate Crisis
This article is part of the World On Wheels series, highlighting skaters around the globe who are making a difference in ending the climate crisis.