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EVEC Microgreens
Microgreens: the allies of the environment
Microgreens are allies of the environment: less water, less land, no transport and no waste. How growing greens at home lowers the footprint of what you eat.
The environmental case for microgreens is mentioned in passing across this library but rarely set out on its own. This article does that, looking at what the crop costs in water, energy and waste next to conventional production. It follows an article published by MP Seeds, which explains how these small shoots work as allies for the environment.
- Carbon and water
Microgreens make a big difference when it comes to sustainability. Producing one kilo of beef, for example, can generate almost 100 kg of CO₂ equivalent, while growing microgreens in controlled systems requires much less energy and produces significantly fewer greenhouse gases. On top of that, their fast and efficient cycle allows them to use up to 90% less water compared to traditional crops. All of this makes them a much lighter choice for the Earth. - Energy well used
Growing microgreens in controlled environments, like greenhouses or indoors, helps optimize resource use. LED lights, for example, consume up to 75% less energy than traditional bulbs and produce less heat, which in turn reduces the need for extra cooling. This is especially useful for urban farms or hydroponic systems. As we’ve mentioned before, in our office we grow microgreens and use LED lights too. - Zero waste (or almost)
The short life cycle of microgreens and their high yields mean that each harvest generates very little waste. In organic or hydroponic systems, what’s left can even be turned into compost or reintegrated into the growing process, multiplying the positive ecological impact. - Fewer chemicals, more freshness
Another big advantage is that microgreens don’t need preservatives or coatings to stay fresh. Since they have a short shelf life and are eaten quickly, harmful chemicals can be avoided, especially when they’re grown organically. - Bringing green closer to home
Microgreens encourage local production and urban farming, reducing the need for transportation and the emissions that come with it. They can also be an educational tool: schools and communities can get involved to learn about sustainable farming, botany, and nutrition, raising environmental awareness locally. (We have since written that up: how to bring microgreens into schools.)
In conclusion, as we always like to say, microgreens are not only nutrient powerhouses, they’re also strong allies of sustainability. Small but mighty, they show us it’s possible to grow nutritious, tasty, and planet friendly food, even from your window, balcony, or kitchen.
Source
MP Seeds. (2025, March 12). Why are microgreens good for the environment? MP Seeds. https://mpseeds.eu/why-are-microgreens-good-for-the-environment
Explore the portal
This article is part of the free knowledge portal of EVEC Microgreens. Wherever you are on your microgreens journey, there is a path for you:
- 🌱 Grow microgreens at home — the full beginner path, free
- 📗 Crop guides — how to grow every species
- 💼 Turn microgreens into a business — and if you have no capital, our cooperative gives you free growing space
- 🏫 Teach with microgreens — free classroom materials
- 🔬 The Science Library — research explained in plain language
Co-funded by the European Union.
This portal presents the microgreens methodology; the organisation behind it is EVEC Athens — the European Voluntary and Educational Center (evec.org.gr). Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Open licence. Except where stated otherwise, the educational materials on this portal are licensed under CC BY 4.0 — free to use, adapt and share, including commercially, with credit. See the licence terms.
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