Economic Sustainability for Halophyte Cash Farms in Urban Environments

Abstract

To successfully establish a halophyte cash farm requires an economic model that is embedded in the goals, development structure, implementation, management and budget from the onset. Goals must identify clearly if the project intends to be research-focused or if it is to be ‘sustainably profitable’, or if both, how is this accomplished. This decision sets the course for its long term viability as a cash-productive model for others to replicate. Too often, great concepts and projects fail to withstand the commercial test of time by failing to establish economic sustainability into their plans. They become victim to subsidization, grants, and capital debt which results in an addiction common to research-focused projects. This chapter will attempt to provide guidelines on how to build in economic sustainability to a halophyte cash farm project in order to demonstrate its economic value to a community and thus ensure longevity in its mission. It will provide meaningful economic value, create jobs, and enhance community sustainability by reducing carbon footprint, increasing local food or product inventories, and introducing local, regional, and global edu-tourism.