How does indoor vertical farming positively impact the environment?

Indoor vertical farming positively impacts the environment primarily by reducing the distance traveled in the supply chain. This method of agriculture allows food to be grown closer to urban centers, which means that products can be delivered to consumers with significantly less transportation needed. As a result, there are lower carbon emissions from vehicles, less fuel consumption, and a reduction in the overall environmental footprint associated with transporting food over long distances. Furthermore, because vertical farms can produce food year-round regardless of weather conditions, they can contribute to more consistent local food supply.

This contrasts with the other options, as expanding the geographic area for agriculture may lead to additional land use that could disrupt local ecosystems, while increasing pesticide usage and employing chemical fertilizers can lead to environmental degradation and pollution rather than promoting sustainability.