Story perspectives

Sheffield Opens World’s Deepest Underground Vertical Farm in Boulby

8/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

University of Sheffield researchers opened the world’s deepest underground farm in Boulby mine.
The farm cultivates pak choi and lettuce in vertical towers more than 1,000 metres underground.
Researchers aim to reduce energy use by exploiting the mine’s stable environment during a 12-month trial.
Stage one expansion will add a cavern, increasing space fivefold by 2030.
The project partners with socially conscious food producer Farm Urban and may host XLZD.

1 of 1

Story summary

University of Sheffield researchers opened the world’s deepest underground farm in Boulby mine.
The farm cultivates pak choi and lettuce in vertical towers more than 1,000 metres underground.
Researchers aim to reduce energy use by exploiting the mine’s stable environment during a 12-month trial.
Stage one expansion will add a cavern, increasing space fivefold by 2030.
The project partners with socially conscious food producer Farm Urban and may host XLZD.