Stage 9: The world of vertical farming
Erin Powell | 1. October 2025
The future of agriculture is under threat as the population grows around 1 percent each year, even faster in certain countries. As feeding the growing population becomes a bigger challenge, vertical farming is a modern and sustainable solution.
IGS Intelligent Growth Solutions
Vertical farming is exactly what it says on the tin, farming on vertical surfaces to maximise food production with minimal space. A lot goes in to ensuring this is successful from artificial temperatures, light, water, and humidity control. We wanted to see this for ourselves which is why today we visited a customer of ours, Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS), who design and build industrial scale vertical farming technology.
After a great visit with IGS, learning more about their processes and plans for the future, we headed back down into Edinburgh to explore all the attractions it had to offer. Recognised as the capital of Scotland as early as the 15th century, Edinburgh is home to a mixture of breath-taking architecture, scenery and a rich history spanning millions of years.
Edinburgh Castle
Perched dramatically atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline and offers sweeping views across the capital. This ancient fortress has witnessed battles, royal births, and political intrigue. Highlights include the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the One O’Clock Gun. A visit here is like stepping into a living museum of Scotland’s turbulent and fascinating history but unfortunately a cycle past had to do.
The Royal Mile
Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is the beating heart of Old Town Edinburgh. Lined with cobbled streets, historic closes, and charming shops, it’s a journey through centuries of Scottish heritage. We cycled through slowly, stopping to see the variety of foods and creations on offer.
St Giles’ Cathedral
With its striking crown spire and Gothic architecture, St Giles’ Cathedral is an integral landmark on the Royal Mile. Founded in the 12th century, it’s known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh and played a central role in the Scottish Reformation. Inside, the stained-glass windows and the Thistle Chapel are said to be breathtaking. It’s a peaceful retreat amid the noise in the city.
Rider
Gary Wilson
Gary is one of the external drytech sales engineers up in Scotland. He has been with igus for just over eight months now. Outside of work he likes to spend most of his free time with his kids and fiancé but on the rare occasion he gets time to himself, you will catch him watching the football or out at a restaurant eating good food (kid free)
