Overcoming barriers to aquaponics adoption in schools: a practical implementation guide

Abstract

Aquaponics emerges as a promising approach to sustainable food production by integrating aquaculture (fish farming) and hydroponics (soil-less plant cultivation) within a closed-loop system that fosters a symbiotic relationship between aquatic organisms and plants. This study presents the development of a practical and accessible guide for constructing small-scale aquaponics systems tailored for educational settings. A systematic review of academic databases was conducted to consolidate dispersed knowledge into a clear, step-by-step methodology. It also highlighted the unique potential of aquaponics in schools, where it can serve as a dynamic tool for teaching a wide range of subjects, while simultaneously raising students’ awareness of the climate crisis and the urgent need for alternative food sources. Aquaponics provides an excellent opportunity for integrating STEM education or Problem-Based Learning (PBL) method, enriching the learning experience with real-world applications. Beyond its educational advantages, aquaponics systems present a holistic and forward-thinking approach to agriculture, addressing environmental, economic, and social dimensions. Adopting aquaponics not only contributes to sustainable food practices but also nurtures a generation with a deeper understanding of the interconnected global challenges and solutions in a rapidly changing world.

1 Introduction

According to the United Nations (UN), on November 15, 2022, the global population reached 8 billion people, with projections indicating a rise to 9 billion by 2037 (ONU News United Nations Organization, 2022). This population surge, coupled with unsustainable practices in conventional agriculture, water scarcity, soil degradation, and inefficiencies in food distribution and resource use (Joyce et al., 2019; Mishra et al., 2020; Guimarães and Lima, 2021; Ibrahim et al., 2023), highlights the urgent need for sustainable food production alternatives. Aligned with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, there is a growing imperative to “ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that enhance productivity, maintain ecosystems, and fortify adaptability to climate change, extreme weather conditions, droughts, floods, and other disasters, while progressively improving land and soil quality” (UN, 2016).

In response to these challenges, the enhancement of techniques and technologies that meet current needs while optimizing resource efficiency becomes pivotal for economic, social, and environmental viability. Aquaponics emerges as one such technique, integrating aquaculture and hydroponics into a closed-loop eco-culture (Verma et al., 2023; Goddek et al., 2019; Krastanova et al., 2022; Channa et al., 2024). This symbiotic system allows for the recirculation of water and nutrients, reducing waste and resource consumption (Ibrahim et al., 2023; Verma et al., 2023; Goddek et al., 2019; Araújo, 2019). Aquaponics is a sustainable and ecological food production system that uses natural fertilization from fish to nourish plants while conserving water through a closed-loop irrigation cycle (Verma et al., 2023; Krastanova et al., 2022; Channa et al., 2024; Bambhaniya et al., 2023; Gabr et al., 2024; Stoyanova et al., 2024). When properly designed, fish can also be harvested for consumption upon reaching maturity. The system’s growing popularity stems from its ability to produce healthy, pesticide-free food (Krastanova et al., 2022; Channa et al., 2024; Stoyanova et al., 2024). Aquaponics also supports the environmental and socio-economic sustainability of smart cities, especially in urban areas with limited land and water resources (Krastanova et al., 2022; Channa et al., 2024; Santos, 2016; Obirikorang et al., 2021). Moreover, innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) integration offer solutions to key challenges in aquaponics, including technical complexity and system monitoring (Channa et al., 2024).

Aquaponics supports multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by enabling the production of healthy, pesticide-free food while significantly reducing land and water use. Specifically, it contributes to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) (UN, 2016; Verma et al., 2023; UNESCO, 2010). Despite its alignment with these sustainability objectives, aquaponics faces regulatory challenges, particularly in obtaining organic certification under the European Union’s stringent agricultural regulations [Ibrahim et al., 2023; European Parliament and Council of the European Union (EU), 2018]. In addition to its alignment with the SDGs, aquaponics also addresses several of the National Academy of Engineering’s Grand Challenges, including the development of carbon sequestration technologies, management of the nitrogen cycle, and the provision of clean water (NAE, 2008; Duarte et al., 2015).

While aquaponics presents numerous sustainability advantages, it also poses operational challenges that merit attention. One of the critical concerns is the occurrence of infections, whether bacterial, fungal, or parasitic, which can spread rapidly within the closed-loop system. For fish, infections can lead to stress, reduced feeding, slower growth rates, secondary diseases, and increased mortality (Defoirdt et al., 2011). For plants, waterborne pathogens may cause root rot, wilting, stunted growth, or nutrient uptake deficiencies (Yep and Youbin Zheng, 2019). Given the interdependence of system components, a localized infection can compromise the health of the entire ecosystem, highlighting the importance of continuous monitoring, early detection, and effective management strategies.

Aquaponics has also gained attention for its educational potential. Several previous studies have explored the implementation of aquaponics in classroom settings as a tool for promoting scientific literacy, interdisciplinary learning, and student engagement in STEM fields (Goddek et al., 2019; Junge et al., 2019; Baykır et al., 2022; Dias and Navarro, 2024). These initiatives have demonstrated aquaponics’ effectiveness in fostering systems thinking and environmental awareness among students. However, many of these educational implementations involve technologically advanced or commercially developed systems, which may not be accessible or feasible for all schools, particularly those with limited resources or technical expertise.

The present study builds upon this foundation by focusing on a practical, scalable, and low-cost approach to implementing aquaponics systems specifically designed for educational settings. Unlike prior studies that may rely on preassembled kits or high-tech monitoring systems, this work emphasizes accessible materials, simplified construction, and alignment with school curricula, making it suitable for broader adoption across diverse educational contexts.

From this comparative perspective, a clear need emerges for new knowledge that addresses the barriers to adoption of aquaponics in schools – such as lack of teacher training, system maintenance during school breaks, and limited financial and technical support. To respond to this gap, the central research questions guiding this work are:

• What are the primary challenges schools face in adopting aquaponics systems?

• How can a practical, adaptable implementation guide help overcome these barriers?

• What are the potential educational and sustainability outcomes of integrating aquaponics in formal education?

By consolidating current knowledge and offering a step-by-step framework for school-based aquaponics, this study aims to contribute to the wider dissemination of sustainable practices while enriching science education through experiential learning.

2 Materials and methods

This study employed a systematic literature review to support the development of a practical and pedagogically grounded aquaponics implementation guide. The review followed a structured approach based on established methodologies for systematic reviews in educational and environmental research (Newman and Gough, 2020; Bearman et al., 2012; Aikens et al., 2016), ensuring transparency and reproducibility in data collection, selection, and analysis.

2.1 Data sources and search strategy

Academic literature was collected from four major sources: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The search was conducted using combinations of keywords including: aquaponics, educational aquaponics, aquaponics in schools, aquaponics system design, aquaponics challenges, and aquaponics advantages and disadvantages. The review focused on peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, theses, and institutional reports published in English or Portuguese from 2010 to 2024. Sources in Portuguese were included due to the relevance of regional case studies and were identified as such in citations.

2.2 Inclusion and exclusion criteria

Publications were selected based on their relevance to the three main research objectives:

• outlining design principles and steps for implementing aquaponics systems,

• identifying the advantages and challenges of aquaponics as a sustainable food production system, and

• examining its application as an educational tool at various academic levels.

Studies were included if they presented empirical data, technical system descriptions, educational interventions, or reviews directly related to aquaponics. Duplicate entries, non-peer-reviewed articles (except for government or institutional reports), and sources lacking methodological transparency were excluded.

2.3 Data organization and thematic analysis

After the initial screening and eligibility assessment, the selected studies were analyzed through thematic coding (Sánchez-Meca, 2022), allowing the classification of findings into the following categories:

• System design and implementation: covering materials, construction steps, system components, and variations in setup;

• Advantages and disadvantages: addressing sustainability, productivity, cost-efficiency, and common challenges such as disease management or maintenance;

• Educational applications: focusing on aquaponics as a pedagogical tool, integration into curricula, and its role in promoting STEM learning and environmental awareness.

2.4 Integration and synthesis

The findings were synthesized to develop a practical implementation guide, supported by evidence-based practices and adapted for educational environments with limited technical and financial resources. Where applicable, best practices were adapted from existing models described in the literature (Mengist et al., 2020; Acosta Castellanos and Queiruga-Dios, 2022), and attention was given to highlighting gaps in the current body of knowledge, thus framing opportunities for future research.

3 Results and discussion

3.1 Aquaponic systems guide

Aquaponics combines aquaculture (the cultivation of aquatic organisms) and hydroponics (soilless plant cultivation) (Ibrahim et al., 2023). This integrated system recirculates water and nutrients, enabling the simultaneous production of fish and vegetables (Channa et al., 2024; Canastra, 2017; Moya et al., 2014; Nozzi et al., 2016; Fernandes, 2017). As a result, aquaponics offers a sustainable model with dual outputs and income streams (Araújo, 2019).

Aquaponics systems, while varying in scale and design, are unified by key components essential for ecological and sustainable production. These core components include the aquaculture environment (for fish farming), the hydroponics (for plant farming), and a biological filter or biofilter (for the colonization of nitrifying bacteria) (Figure 1). Depending on specific methodologies or fish densities, a solids filter (mechanical filter) (Figure 1) may be required to remove particles that can adhere to plant roots and hinder water, oxygen, and nutrient absorption (Krastanova et al., 2022; Channa et al., 2024; Fernandes, 2017; Rakocy, 2012). Additionally, continuous water circulation requires a pump, powered by an appropriate energy source, to maintain system functionality.

Figure 1

Establishing an aquaponics system begins with addressing five key initial questions, each linked to specific actions and tasks (Figure 2). These questions form the foundation of a structured approach, serving as a comprehensive guide for setting up and managing the aquaponics system effectively. This method ensures a systematic process, helping to address critical factors and streamline the path from planning to operation.

Figure 2

3.1.1 Aquaculture system

In aquaponics systems with fish densities below 10 kg/m³, tank sizes typically range from 100 to 1,000 L (Carneiro et al., 2015). Water flow in these tanks must balance water velocity and renewal rate. The flow should be gentle enough to avoid stressing the fish, yet sufficient to remove waste and prevent accumulation (Krastanova et al., 2022). For densities up to 10 kg/m³, at least half the tank's volume should be replaced hourly. For higher densities, a complete water change per hour is necessary; for instance, a 500-liter tank with more than 5 kg of fish requires a pump with a minimum capacity of 500 L/h (Carneiro et al., 2015).

When selecting fish species for aquaponics, factors like water temperature, pH, fish density, and availability of juveniles and feed must be considered. For small systems, densities should remain under 25 kg/m³ (Krastanova et al., 2022; Carneiro et al., 2015; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022). The choice of species depends on tank size and whether the fish are for consumption or ornamental purposes. Commonly used aquaponic species worldwide are listed in Table 1.

The Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is the most widely used species in aquaponics due to its high productivity, disease resistance, and favorable growth characteristics (Krastanova et al., 2022). For ornamental species, koi carp (Cyprinus carpio) and goldfish (Carassius auratus) are ideal choices because of their resilience to water quality variations and high-density conditions (Krastanova et al., 2022; Channa et al., 2024; Carneiro et al., 2015).

When selecting fish, it is important to consider their dietary habits. Carnivorous fish require high-quality commercial feed, typically in the form of granules, and should be kept with similarly sized individuals to prevent aggression and predatory behavior (Krastanova et al., 2022). Omnivorous fish, on the other hand, are more adaptable and can comfortably coexist with other species. Thrive on a diverse diet that includes foods produced within the aquaponics system, such as aquatic plants and live food (e.g., worms), which helps reduce feeding costs (Krastanova et al., 2022; Carneiro et al., 2015; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022). Regardless of diet, fish metabolism adapts to food availability. Feeding guidelines suggest 1% of body weight daily for adults and 7% for juveniles (Channa et al., 2024; Carneiro et al., 2015; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022).

3.1.2 Hydroponic system

In hydroponic systems, the main techniques used are Media-Based Systems (MBS), Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), and Deep Water Culture (DWC) (Figure 3) (Channa et al., 2024; Yang et al., 2023). MBS (Figure 3A), also known as vertical systems, are common in small-scale aquaponics, suitable for low fish densities where daily fish feed consumption is 25–50 g per m² of plant area (Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022). The substrate (expanded clay, volcanic rocks, gravel, or similar materials) supports plants and provides a surface for nitrifying bacteria. NFT (Figure 3B) organizes plants in horizontal rows using PVC tubes with a shallow, nutrient-rich water flow (1–2 L/min) to nourish and oxygenate roots. The tubes are angled at 8–12% for gravity-driven water flow. This technique is often used in large-scale operations due to its space efficiency (Fernandes, 2017; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022; Yang et al., 2023). The DWC (Figure 3C), or raft system, is preferred for medium and large-scale aquaponics. Plants are placed on floating rafts, usually polystyrene, which may include support containers with substrates like expanded clay or rock wool. These rafts float in cultivation channels connected to the fish tanks (Carneiro et al., 2015; Yang et al., 2023).

Figure 3

Aquaponics can support a wide variety of crops, including lettuce, basil, cabbage, strawberries, tomatoes, and cucumbers (Table 2). Generally, any plant suitable for hydroponics can thrive in aquaponics, provided the system meets the plant’s needs for space, nutrients, aeration, temperature, sunlight, and pH (Krastanova et al., 2022; Carneiro et al., 2015).

Plants are classified into low-and high-nutrient requirements (Table 2), with growth rates linked to the fish density in the system. Some plants demand more nutrients than others, affecting system management. According to Krastanova et al. (2022), plants with lower nutrient requirements thrive with a fish feed input of 20–50 g/m², whereas those with higher nutrient needs require 50–80 g/m². Rakocy (2012) found that the ideal feed-to-area ratio for raising Nile tilapia alongside crops like lettuce and basil in an aquaponic setup ranges between 60 and 100 g/day/m², ensuring balanced nutrient supply for both fish and plants.

For optimal growth, plants in aquaponic systems need 16 essential nutrients. While carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen are supplied by water, most other nutrients are derived from fish feed, except potassium (K) and iron (Fe), which are often lacking (Krastanova et al., 2022). Other elements like phosphorus (P), sulfur (S), manganese (Mn), boron (B), and molybdenum (Mo) also tend to be scarce (Krastanova et al., 2022). Rakocy (2012) highlight the need for external nutrient supplementation to ensure proper plant nutrition imbalances and poor solid waste management can lead to nutrient accumulation, low pH, and deficiencies in some micronutrients.

3.1.3 Filters

The biofilter is a crucial component in all aquaponics systems, providing conditions for nitrifying bacteria to convert nitrogenous compounds (Channa et al., 2024). It houses aerobic, autotrophic bacteria such as Nitrosomas spp., Nitrosococcus spp., and Nitrobacter spp., which use carbon dioxide (CO₂) and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) as carbon sources and oxygen for oxidation (Nozzi et al., 2016). Regular monitoring is crucial, as rising ammonia levels signal potential problems with biofilter efficiency or improper feed rate settings. Biofilter failures can result from factors such as bacterial die-off, chemical contamination, oxygen deficiency, or improper pH levels (Krastanova et al., 2022; Canastra, 2017).

For solid waste management, low fish densities (<5 kg/m³) produce minimal waste, which the biofilter can handle. However, at densities above 10 kg/m³, a mechanical filter is needed to remove solid waste. Mechanical filtration is typically done via sedimentation in conical-bottom decanters, allowing easy removal of settled particles (Channa et al., 2024). This collected waste, rich in organic matter, can be repurposed as fertilizer or processed in an anaerobic biodigester for biogas production (Canastra, 2017; Carneiro et al., 2015). Suspended solids that bypass mechanical filters should be captured using fine screens or sieves to maintain water quality.

3.1.4 Monitoring

Monitoring parameters in an aquaponic system is essential for maintaining the health and vitality of fish, plants, and beneficial bacteria (Krastanova et al., 2022).

Water quality is a critical factor in aquaponics, as it must support fish, plants, and bacteria. Maintaining the pH is vital: nitrifying bacteria thrive between 7.0 and 8.0 (Krastanova et al., 2022; Canastra, 2017), while hydroponic plants (see Table 2) prefer 5.5 to 6.5 (Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022). Freshwater fish used in aquaponics (see Table 1) thrive at a pH of 7.5 to 9.0 (Krastanova et al., 2022). Thus, keeping a pH close to 7.0 is optimal for all components (Figure 4A; Table 3).

Figure 4

Water temperature is a critical factor in aquaponic systems, as it directly impacts the health and growth of fish, plants, and nitrifying bacteria. Fish species have specific temperature ranges they can tolerate, influenced by the local climate, which is an essential consideration when selecting species. For fish, temperatures above 32°C leading to mortality, while lower temperatures may reduce appetite and increase susceptibility to disease (Krastanova et al., 2022). Hydroponic vegetables thrive in temperatures between 20°C and 25°C, whereas nitrifying bacteria perform optimally within a range of 17°C to 34°C (Ibrahim et al., 2023; Krastanova et al., 2022; Carneiro et al., 2015). Maintaining these temperature ranges is crucial for the overall health and stability of the system (Figure 4B; Table 3).

Dissolved oxygen levels are crucial for sustaining both aerobic and anaerobic organisms, with a recommended range of 4 to 12 mg/L (Ibrahim et al., 2023; Krastanova et al., 2022; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022) (Table 3). To maintain these oxygen levels, effective aeration methods such as air compressors (air pumps), aerators, diffuser stones, or gravity-fed water flow can be employed (Canastra, 2017; Carneiro et al., 2015).

Ammonia concentration depends on pH and temperature, existing as toxic non-ionized ammonia (NH₃) and less harmful ionized ammonia (NH₄⁺). An increase in pH by one unit can raise non-ionized ammonia tenfold (Canastra, 2017; Yang et al., 2023; Hu et al., 2015). Therefore, total ammonia should be kept below 2.0 mg/L (Krastanova et al., 2022) (Table 3).

Excess nitrite is harmful and should ideally remain below 0.5 mg/L (Krastanova et al., 2022; Canastra, 2017; Yang et al., 2023; Hu et al., 2015) (Table 3). If levels rise, actions such as halting feeding, partial water changes, or adding sodium chloride (NaCl) can help prevent absorption by fish.

Nitrate, a product of nitrite oxidation by nitrifying bacteria like Nitrobacter spp., is generally tolerated by aquatic animals at levels above 200 mg/L (Table 3) and is considered non-toxic (Krastanova et al., 2022; Yang et al., 2023; Hu et al., 2015).

Biological parameters, including fish and plant health, can be monitored by assessing population growth and changes. Fish growth is assessed by measuring their length and weight, while plant growth is evaluated by counting leaves, measuring the main stem, and, if applicable, counting the number of fruits. Population assessment for both fish and plants involves tracking the difference between the initial number of organisms introduced into the system, the number of deaths, and the final population count at the end of the experiment.

3.2 Aquaponics as a sustainable alternative

Aquaponics presents an eco-friendly alternative for fish and vegetable cultivation, minimizing environmental impact through its judicious use of water and efficient recycling of organic waste (Ibrahim et al., 2023; Channa et al., 2024; Carneiro et al., 2015; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022). Although rooted in age-old practices (Krastanova et al., 2022; Channa et al., 2024), aquaponics faced limitations in traditional systems, demanding extensive physical space until a few decades ago. The introduction of water recirculation significantly enhanced productivity in these systems (Carneiro et al., 2015; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022).

One of the major advantages of aquaponics is its efficient water reuse, which minimizes waste and significantly reduces the discharge of pollutants into the environment (Ibrahim et al., 2023; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022). Unlike traditional agriculture and aquaculture, aquaponics requires substantially less water (Krastanova et al., 2022). Once filled, an aquaponics system can operate for extended periods without needing significant water changes. Occasional adjustments are necessary to maintain optimal water levels, compensating for losses due to evaporation and plant evapotranspiration. Effective water-quality management is also crucial, and as noted by Sasi et al. (2023), the use of plasmas in aquaponic systems offers a potential solution to this challenge. In comparison to hydroponics, which depends on constant water replacement with fresh nutrient solutions (Ibrahim et al., 2023; Channa et al., 2024; Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022), aquaponics excels in sustainability.

To provide a clearer comparison among different agricultural systems, Table 4 offers a comprehensive evaluation of aquaponics, hydroponics, and conventional soil-based agriculture based on critical sustainability and productivity indicators. These indicators include water usage, energy consumption, chemical input requirements, waste generation, land/soil utilization, nutrient sourcing, space efficiency, productivity levels, environmental impact, automation potential, setup costs, and urban suitability. The assessment employs a color-coded scale to enhance the interpretability of results. The scale ranges from minimal (blue), very low (green), low (light green), low to moderate (light yellow), moderate (yellow), low to high (light orange), to high impact (orange), facilitating a visual differentiation of performance across systems.

Overall, aquaponics demonstrates a more favorable profile, with 58.3% of its parameters exhibiting minimal to low environmental and resource impact. In contrast, traditional agriculture shows a predominance of less sustainable attributes, with 58.3% of its evaluated parameters falling within the low to high or high impact categories. This comparative analysis underscores the potential of aquaponics as a more sustainable alternative to conventional agricultural practices.

The significant reduction in water and soil requirements enables aquaponics to be practiced in regions unsuitable for traditional aquaculture or agriculture, such as deserts, areas with degraded or contaminated soil, and saline environments (Rakocy, 2012; Yep and Youbin Zheng, 2019). By relying on a closed-loop system and water recirculation, aquaponics drastically reduces water wastage, making it ideal for resource-scarce settings (Fernandes, 2017; Hoevenaars et al., 2018). Additionally, integrating aquaponics into urban environments brings production closer to consumers, reducing the need for long-distance transportation. This not only lowers the ecological footprint but also ensures fresher, higher-quality products for local markets.

To synthesize the key advantages of aquaponic systems, Table 5 presents a structured summary organized into five thematic categories: Resource Efficiency, Environmental Impact, Productivity, Biological Benefits, and Technological Advancements. This classification highlights aquaponics’ multidimensional contributions to sustainable food production and system resilience. Collectively, these categories illustrate the system’s capacity to promote both environmental sustainability and operational resilience in modern agricultural practices.

The European Parliament (European Commission: Directorate-General for Environment, 2014) acknowledges aquaponics for its primary advantages, including (i) water recycling and reuse, (ii) high productivity concerning quantity/space ratio, and (iii) a diminished environmental footprint. However, aquaponics also presents several challenges when compared to conventional agriculture and aquaculture methods, including (Yep and Youbin Zheng, 2019; Canastra, 2017; Carneiro et al., 2015; Hu et al., 2015):

• Continuous reliance on electricity to power pumps and maintain system operations;

• Limitations on the use of pesticides and antibiotics;

• Requirement for expertise in key areas such as engineering, hydraulics, biology, phytotechnics, and fish farming;

• Initial investment and maintenance costs;

• Emissions of nitrous oxide (N₂O) from the nitrifying bacteria in the system, contributing to greenhouse gases:

• Restrictions on the types of fish and plants that can be cultivated, influenced by system design, environmental factors, and local regulations.

Nevertheless, some of these challenges can be overcome. For example, the reliance on electricity can be mitigated by incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar panels to power the system. The expertise required for operation can be addressed through training programs and the development of user-friendly monitoring technologies, which simplify management and make the systems more accessible. Additionally, the guide provided here serves to further expand knowledge and understanding.

3.3 Aquaponics as an educational tool

Aquaponics’ adaptability to small-scale setups makes it ideal for use in compact or underutilized spaces (Velazquez-Gonzalez et al., 2022). Among the various advantages previously mentioned, its potential to enhance scientific literacy and educational value stands out. In educational environments, aquaponics serves as an effective tool for teaching natural sciences, including both life and physical sciences, across all educational levels (Junge et al., 2019; Baykır et al., 2022; Hart et al., 2013; Thompson et al., 2023), contributing significantly to environmental awareness.

Aquaponics introduces concepts such as water recirculation, interconnections among plants, fish, and microorganisms, rational food production, nutrition, and sustainability. These aspects provide a practical opportunity for harnessing the didactic-pedagogical potential of the system (Souza et al., 2022). By offering hands-on learning opportunities, aquaponics allows students to collect data, analyze trends, and explore correlations among physical, chemical, and biological factors (Channa et al., 2024; Thompson et al., 2023). It also supports the use of simulations within a controlled environment, providing a dynamic platform for experiential learning (Ibrahim et al., 2023; Khandakar et al., 2024). Teachers can utilize aquaponics to explore a wide range of topics and engage students in diverse activities (Thompson et al., 2023). Table 6 presents suggested activities that can be carried out using aquaponics, along with the corresponding knowledge and skills developed. Additionally, aquaponics offers opportunities for system automation, enabling the integration and advancement of new technologies, devices, applications, and methodologies that optimize water, energy, and labor efficiency (Channa et al., 2024; Khandakar et al., 2024; Abbasi et al., 2022).

Hence, skills such as problem-solving, systems thinking, and scientific processes (including data collection and observation) can be easily incorporated into aquaponics activities, given their recognized effectiveness as educational tools (Baykır et al., 2022; Thompson et al., 2023). Considering the inherently low maintenance nature of aquaponics, incorporating technology offers a potential solution during school holiday periods. Automated systems can effectively manage and monitor key parameters, presenting an educational asset and introducing a novel approach to learning within the realms of electronics and programming (Channa et al., 2024; Khandakar et al., 2024; Abbasi et al., 2022).

3.3.1 STEM education

An aquaponic system can provide an enjoyable and effective way for students to engage with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education (Junge et al., 2019; Baykır et al., 2022; Thompson et al., 2023), offering an excellent opportunity for hands-on learning. The STEM Education model, as an instructional approach, centers on holistically engaging students through a multidisciplinary framework. By simultaneously addressing various subjects, this model helps students to assimilate new concepts and understand their practical applications in real-life scenarios. This approach actively promotes creativity and critical thinking, prompting students to seek innovative solutions, think unconventionally, and tackle complex problems. Encouraging inquiry and exploration of diverse perspectives, it cultivates the ability to make informed decisions. Additionally, the integration of technology and discipline-specific tools is a core component of the STEM education, improving the overall learning experience (Thompson et al., 2023).

Moreover, STEM education adds value by enhancing student motivation, as it allows them to see tangible applications in their daily lives, facilitating more effective knowledge acquisition compared to traditional teaching methods. Another key aspect of this approach is its emphasis on applying acquired knowledge, aligning with the principle of “learning by doing.” Students are encouraged to put their knowledge into practice, allowing them to see its real-world implications and develop problem-solving skills. Ultimately, this teaching method better prepares students for the job market, helping them stand out and equipping to face the challenges of their future careers.

In the STEM education model, the teacher’s role evolves from a traditional content provider to that of a mentor. Instead of delivering ready-made answers, teachers support and guide students, fostering a more interactive and exploratory learning environment.

3.3.2 PBL method

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) emerges as a response to the gap between training and professional practice, seeking to replace outdated teaching methods where memorization prevails. Unlike traditional approaches that disrupt knowledge transfer, PBL, along with other contemporary teaching models, adopts autonomous and active learning methods to cater to students with diverse abilities (Thompson et al., 2023; Gomes et al., 2017).

In PBL, students take center stage in the learning process, actively encouraged to ask questions, investigate, collaborate, and find solutions. This constructivist teaching strategy places students in scenarios with unknown problems, equipping them with the necessary tools and skills to solve those challenges (Thompson et al., 2023; Lonergan et al., 2022). This active teaching method guides reasoning and promotes the development of conceptual skills, fostering autonomous and active learning, making knowledge acquisition more straightforward through experience.

PBL learning projects are generally complex and challenging, requiring the application of concepts and skills from different areas of knowledge. PBL learning projects are typically intricate and demanding, requiring the application of concepts and skills from various knowledge domains. This approach incorporates a range of strategies, from trial-and-error methods to more focused techniques, all designed to promote student independence and initiative. Each student is encouraged to engage in individual research, and their active participation is vital, as they are expected to bring forth problems for collaborative exploration and resolution. This methodology cultivates a strong sense of responsibility, sharpens logical reasoning, and enhances teamwork skills among students.

In the PBL method, the teacher’s role shifts to that of a facilitator, guiding students and providing essential support throughout the learning process.

4 Conclusion

Aquaponics holds significant potential for revolutionizing sustainable food production. It emerges as a promising alternative that aligns with planetary boundaries and adheres to United Nations guidelines encapsulated in the SDGs.

From an environmental perspective, aquaponics significantly reduces the ecological footprint associated with conventional agriculture. By recycling and reusing water within a closed-loop system, it minimizes water usage – an essential factor in areas experiencing water scarcity. Furthermore, this method diminishes reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, promoting organic and chemical-free cultivation practices.

Regarding social impact, aquaponics microsystems offer a decentralized and flexible solution for local food production. This is particularly vital in urban environments where traditional agriculture may be impractical due to constraints in space and resources. Aquaponics can be implemented at a small scale, allowing communities, schools, and even individual households to participate in sustainable food cultivation. Its scalability makes it accessible to diverse demographics, thereby promoting food security and strengthening community resilience.

Economically, the potential of aquaponics lies in its ability to generate multiple revenue streams. The integrated system produces both fish and vegetables simultaneously, thereby diversifying income opportunities for farmers. Moreover, the efficient use of resources, coupled with the ability to operate in non-traditional agricultural spaces, can contribute to the economic viability of aquaponics microsystems. This approach not only maximizes productivity but also minimizes operational costs, making it a sustainable alternative for modern food production.

Furthermore, the educational potential of aquaponics is noteworthy. Despite its apparent simplicity, aquaponics involves complex processes that provide a unique opportunity for schools to teach a variety of subjects while simultaneously raising students’ awareness of the climate crisis and the urgent need for alternative food sources It offers a hands-on, practical learning experience for students and enthusiasts alike, covering various disciplines such as biology, chemistry, and environmental science. An aquaponic microsystem functions as a dynamic living laboratory, fostering a deep understanding of ecological relationships and sustainable practices. As a result, schools play a pivotal role in cultivating a generation of students who are not only aware of the interconnected challenges facing our world but also equipped with the knowledge and skills to develop innovative solutions.

The present study builds upon this foundation by proposing a practical, scalable, and low-cost approach to implementing aquaponics systems tailored specifically for educational environments. Unlike previous models that depend on high-tech equipment or commercially preassembled kits, this study emphasizes accessible materials, simplified design, and curricular integration to ensure feasibility across diverse educational contexts. In doing so, it addresses critical barriers to adoption, such as insufficient teacher training, challenges in maintaining systems during school breaks, and limited financial or technical support.

By exploring the primary obstacles schools face, evaluating the effectiveness of an adaptable implementation guide, and assessing the educational and sustainability outcomes of classroom-based aquaponics, this work contributes new knowledge aimed at fostering broader adoption in formal education. In conclusion, small-scale aquaponics not only offers a viable solution for sustainable food production but also serves as a powerful educational tool – cultivating ecological literacy, empowering learners, and inspiring action toward a more sustainable future.

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