Dickson Despommier, known for being a true pioneer and knowledge source in vertical farming, passed away on February 7, 2025, in New York City. He was 84 years old. Despommier, a former professor at Columbia University, introduced the vertical farming concept in 1999. His 2010 book, "The Vertical Farm: Feeding the World in the 21st Century," outlined urban agriculture models.
With very few vertical farms existing at the time, much of his early work involved speculating about the future impact of vertical farms, Dickson predicted that especially operations at scale would slow down 'climate change' as it reduces the need for traditional agriculture which ultimately drives deforestation. "I'm trained in parasitology, and I've always been passionate about natural processes. The idea that changing the way we produce food could have such positive effects on ecological systems drew me in," he shared last year.
Although he also saw the challenges for the industry, Dickson remained positive about the Vertical Farming prospects "I foresee a future where every city in the world has a variety of vertical farms integrated into its urban fabric," he states. As technology improves and the demand for local, climate-resilient food sources grows, vertical farming is positioned to play an increasingly essential role in global food production.
Dickson Despommier (Photo credits: CC BY-SA 4.0)
Industry professionals have commented on his passing, showing the great inspiration Dickson has been to many in the industry.
Glenn Behrman, founder of CEA Advisors, shared, "He was a visionary and a really nice down to earth guy. RIP, Dr. Despommier. You definitely influenced a lot of people."
"He is and was the inspiration for many of us working in the vertical farm industry and who have passion for building a better world", shares James Summers-Gill, Kendyl Farms.
"The world has lost a true visionary. Dr. Dickson Despommier didn't just dream of cities that could feed themselves—he inspired a global movement to make it happen", says Henry Gordon-Smith with Agritekture, who wrote a touching article about Dickson.
"The visionary who coined the term vertical farming. His ideas were foundational in shaping the last decade's conversation around controlled environment agriculture.
"Like so many others, we were inspired by Dickson Despommier's wit, courage, and boundless energy. He didn't just theorize about a different way forward", shares Nona Yehia, Vertical Harvest Farms. "He championed it, pushing all of us to think bigger, be bolder, and never back down from a challenge. His legacy is not just in the vertical farms around the world but in the minds and hearts of those he encouraged to dream, to innovate, and to act. It takes people like Dickson to change the world, and he did just that. The godfather of Vertical Farming will always live on in our green hearts, in every thriving farm that stand as proof of his vision. We are forever grateful for his wisdom, his passion, and his unwavering belief that a better future is always possible."
Benjamin Swan, co-founder of Sustenir Agriculture, stated, "It's not often you encounter those rare individuals who profoundly shape the course of your life. Dr. Despommier was one of those people for me. His pioneering ideas on vertical farming sparked a journey that has stayed with me throughout my career as a founder."