Is this a plausible solution in the next 20 years to help solve the food shortage due to over population: Skyscrapers dedicated to hydroponic farming fueled by solar power, wind power, electromagnetism, or a combination of renewable energy sources?

That has actually been proposed fairly recently by a prominent architect. I think it would be very expensive, though. Also, it's not clear to me how making a skyscraper increases the amount of sunlight available to plants. The amount of solar flux available is determined by the land area, not the height. I am a little confused by your "electromagnetism" thing, though. That's not a source of energy, only a means to convey it.

GO FOR IT! Develop the idea! Ideas are worthless UNLESS acted upon! The biggest challenge I see is when it comes time to harvest, how is it going to be done? If you use manual labor, you're faced with a higher overhead with a slower harvest rate. If you harvest using machinery, you'll have to design the skyscraper's floors to withstand the weight of the heavy equipment. You'll also have to be able to get water, heat and light to the lower floors, won't you? Processing and shipping can be done by using continuous conveyor belts to transport the products Thanks for asking your Q! I hope the information helps. I did my best to answer it. VTY, Ron Berue Yes, that is my real last name! Sources: Some personal observations and opinions. "THE University of Hard Knocks" Also known as ("a/k/a") "life's valuable lessons".

Is it plausible-in my opinion no only because of reasons previosly stated by others pertaining to the actual development of the idea. I didn't realize there was already an arcitect that proposed something along these lines. I certainly agree that it would be costly and I am unclear as well on how it could function properly. What an interesting question this is! Plausible-no; a solution-it would help!~ I do agree with Glenn Blaylocks comment on the distribution of food at this present time.

We will just plant a larger percent of the earth. What we do plant will produce more food per acre. Additionally, more of the calories will be consumed by people instead of converted to fuel, fed to livestock, etc. We will also use more of the ocean.