A Didactic Approach to the Design and Development of an IoT-Based Smart Aquaponic System for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

Abstract

This study presents a didactic approach to the design and development of an Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart aquaponic system for small-scale urban agriculture. The system integrates an ESP32 microcontroller, soil moisture sensor, temperature and humidity sensor, relay-controlled water pump, and Blynk IoT platform for real-time monitoring and automated irrigation. A hysteresis-based control strategy was implemented for activating the pump when soil moisture falls below 35% and deactivating it at 55% to reduce unnecessary switching and water consumption. Experimental validation demonstrated successful sensor acquisition, actuator response, Wi-Fi connectivity and remote data monitoring. The prototype was developed at a relatively low cost while maintaining a modular and scalable architecture. Through closed-loop water circulation, demand-driven irrigation, and efficient resource utilization, the developed system demonstrates potential for sustainable urban food production while supporting Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and Sustainable Development Goals 13 (Climate Action).