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The Global Food Security & Sustainability Virtual Summit 2021 , 17th September 2021
The food crisis faced during the pandemic is a wake-up call for both developed and developing countries of the looming crisis facing the world when the next major crisis hits us, be it climate change, pandemics, etc.
The Global food system is at a critical stage and made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic. As many as 265 million people are threatened by famine, up 50% from last year. 700 million suffer from chronic hunger and 2 billion more from malnutrition, with obesity and associated diet-related diseases increasing in all regions. During the height of the pandemic with lockdowns, we have witnessed the collapse of the global food system with reports of food producers resorting to dumping their produce. The food crisis faced during the pandemic is a wake-up call for both developed and developing countries of the looming crisis facing the world when the next major crisis hits us, be it climate change, pandemics, etc.
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The Global Food Security & Sustainability
Although the world has progressed significantly in terms of technological advancements in food production, food is not distributed in an equitable manner to regions, countries, households, and individuals. Government policies, availability of investments, and technological know-how including access to food supplies are key issues to meet the urgent food needs of the world’s growing population. New and innovative farming technologies such as high-tech agriculture and aquaculture methods that produce more yields inland and urban conditions offer hope for the future.
The Global Food Security & Sustainability Virtual Summit 2021 held on 17 September 2021, would be one of the most important events ever held to address the critical issues of food security from the local to the global level, and from an interdisciplinary and systemic food systems perspective. The summit will invite multi-stakeholders from governmental organizations, private sector businesses, and NGOs to address the current disruptions and possible solutions on the world food supply chain. Discussions will also include issues surrounding sustainability issues and how societies and businesses can design more sustainable solutions in their entire food chain to minimize impact to the environment and reduce food waste.
Step Away From That Screen And On To Our Expanded Expo Floor
There's nothing like an in-person event for getting a first-hand look at the latest product innovations. So step away from that computer screen, step onto our expo floor and see live product demonstrations...Touch new products...Ask questions and gather feedback from company execs and peers in the booth
BIGGER, BETTER EXPO FLOOR OFFERS PERFECT ZOOM FATIGUE FIX!
(And some pretty great solutions for your business, too)
There's nothing like an in-person event for getting a first-hand look at the latest product innovations. So step away from that computer screen, step on to our expo floor and see live product demonstrations...Touch new products...Ask questions and gather feedback from company execs and peers in the booth.
We've significantly expanded our expo floor to bring you even more top names, established best-sellers and promising start-ups. See the latest in lighting, operating, automation and control systems, growth chambers, seed treatments, plant nutrition, greenhouse & hydroponic supplies, substrates, pest control, irrigation, equipment & design resources and so much more from companies like:
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YOUR TWO-DAY INDOOR AG-CON EXPERIENCE PACKAGE
Indoor Ag-Con is so much more than an event. It's an experience! And one you don't want to miss. Hear from 70+ speakers, network with industry peers, see the latest product innovations. Then, head back to your operation armed with actionable ideas and profitable strategies that promise to grow your business!
Register before our Early Bird Rates end on August 16, 2021 to save up to $300 on our full access pass. And if your plans change, no worries! Passes are completely refundable prior to September 27, 2021, and include:
All Keynotes, Morning Conference Sessions, Afternoon Panels
Expo Floor Access
Welcome Gift Bag
Complimentary On-Demand Access to In-Depth, 2-Day "Financing Indoor Ag Seed To Scale" webinar
White Paper From The Packer & PMG presenting the latest research on indoor growing & sustainability
Lunch Daily
Show Floor Cocktail Receptions
Event App
Access to Indoor Ag-Con Library
REGISTER NOW & SAVE UP TO $300
OUR SAFETY PROMISE
Your health and safety are priority one at Indoor Ag-Con Orlando.
Rest assured that the Indoor Ag-Con team is closely monitoring the
guidelines issued by the CDC, state and local officials. We're working with our venue partner, Hilton Orlando, to provide you with a safe and
productive environment to conduct business.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR INDOOR AG-CON SPONSORS,
MEDIA & MARKETING ALLIES
Indoor Ag-Con, 3834 Silvestri Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89120, United States
Join Our Next Conversation - April 28, 2021 | 2:00 to 3:00 pm EDT
Join us for a fun “Fireside Chat” as Indoor Ag-Con’s Content Chair Jim Pantaleo sits down with Dan to discuss this great success story
In 2010, Dan Albert began laying the groundwork for what would become Farmbox Greens, a Seattle-based vertical farm growing specialty produce for retail and foodservice customers.
In 2016, Farmbox was acquired by a regional produce company and Dan went on to scale Farmbox to serve customers in the Northwest and beyond.
Join us for a fun “Fireside Chat” as Indoor Ag-Con’s Content Chair Jim Pantaleo sits down with Dan to discuss this great success story—from the farm’s early days to those first meetings with potential restaurant customers to making the connection with Charlie’s Produce.
Jim and Dan will also talk about Dan’s newest role as Vice President of Plant Performance with Unfold.
LEARN MORE & SAVE YOUR FREE SPOT!
Indoor Ag-Con To Change Dates, Location For 2021
The Indoor Ag-Con team is currently gathering feedback from its board and monitoring leading sources of health information to secure a fall date pattern and convenient venue that ensures a safe, cost-effective show
Co-Location With The NGA Show Shifts To 2022 Edition
Press Release — With safety in mind, the Indoor Ag-Con management team has made the decision to push the dates for its previously announced May 16-18, 2021 agriculture trade show and conference for the indoor and vertical farming industry to the third quarter of 2021. The decision is in keeping with The NGA Show | National Grocers Association decision to shift its show — which was previously scheduled to run concurrently at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas — to the third quarter as well. While venue and space limitations in the Las Vegas marketplace prevent co-location for this later time frame in 2021, the two events will come together in 2022.
The Indoor Ag-Con team is currently gathering feedback from its board and monitoring leading sources of health information to secure a fall date pattern and convenient venue that ensures a safe, cost-effective show. The new 2021 dates and location will be announced shortly.
“The safety of the indoor ag community is our top priority,” explains Brian Sullivan, co-owner, Indoor Ag-Con. “By moving our event to a Fall 2021 pattern, we’ll be better aligned with the expanding Covid-19 vaccine rollout and growing confidence levels in travel and attendance at live events. And, looking ahead to 2022, we’re excited to renew our plans to co-locate with The NGA Show and give our audience the incredible opportunity to connect with supermarket and food retail industry professionals.”
“We were very much looking forward to co-locating The NGA Show with Indoor Ag-Con this year and celebrating the synergy between the two events,” said Courtney Muller, chief corporate development and strategy officer with Clarion Events North America. “Delivering a cross-over resource to help retailers partner with growers in a new way to address supply chain challenges, transparency in food sourcing, and meeting consumer demand will only grow in value until we are able to co-locate the two events in 2022.”
For 2022, Indoor Ag-Con and The NGA Show will co-locate at Caesars Forum Convention Center in Las Vegas , February 27 – March 1, 2022. The NGA Show 2021 edition will be held September 19-21 at Paris Hotel Casino, Las Vegas, NV.
Indoor Ag-Con, launched in 2013, provides exhibitors and attendees with the latest technology and business strategies for growing crops in indoor systems, using hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic techniques, bringing together growers, investors, chefs, produce buyers, academics, policymakers, industry suppliers and advocates. The 2021 edition will feature an expanded exhibit floor, new networking opportunities, and some of the industry’s top innovators and business leaders presenting keynote addresses and participating in a range of panel discussions.
About Indoor Ag-Con
Founded in 2013, Indoor Ag-Con has emerged as the premier trade event for vertical farming | indoor agriculture, the practice of growing crops in indoor systems, using hydroponic, aquaponic and aeroponic techniques. Its events are crop-agnostic and touch all sectors of the business, covering produce, legal cannabis |hemp, alternate protein and non-food crops. In December 2018, three event industry professionals – Nancy Hallberg, Kris Sieradzki and Brian Sullivan – acquired Indoor Ag-Con LLC, setting the stage for further expansion of the events globally. More information is at https://indoor.ag.
About The National Grocers Association
The National Grocers Association (NGA) is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector is accountable for close to one percent of the nation’s overall economy and is responsible for generating $131 billion in sales, 944,000 jobs, $30 billion in wages and $27 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers, state grocers’ associations, as well as manufacturers and service suppliers. For more information about NGA, visit www.nationalgrocers.org.
About Clarion Events
Clarion Events (www.US.ClarionEvents.com) produces 37 events across 13 sectors of both trade and consumer events. Clarion Events, which is the U.S. division of Clarion Events UK and backed by The Blackstone Group, has become one of the fastest-growing event companies in the U.S. with aggressive growth through both acquisition and launch. Clarion acquired PennWell in early 2018, bringing four Tradeshow 200 events into the U.S. portfolio and supercharging the already rapid growth. Clarion Events has offices in Trumbull, Conn.; Kennesaw, Ga.; Boca Raton, Fla.; Tacoma, Wash., and Fairlawn, N.J. www.US.ClarionEvents.com
“Autonomy Will Not Happen Until We Start Sharing Data”
In an emerging industry with companies eager to prove their technologies’ worth, Sensei Ag remains form-factor agnostic, meaning that the agtech company remains unbiased towards different farm hardware solutions – focusing more on software and plant biology. Sensei Ag is a market-changing agtech company that develops agile growing solutions through a highly iterative approach to farming, focused on improving the nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables while also reducing production costs. The company combines plant science, computer vision, machine learning, automation and artificial intelligence into its growing systems
In an emerging industry with companies eager to prove their technologies’ worth, Sensei Ag remains form-factor agnostic, meaning that the agtech company remains unbiased towards different farm hardware solutions – focusing more on software and plant biology.
Sensei Ag is a market-changing agtech company that develops agile growing solutions through a highly iterative approach to farming, focused on improving the nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables while also reducing production costs. The company combines plant science, computer vision, machine learning, automation and artificial intelligence into its growing systems.
According to Sensei Ag CEO Sonia Lo, remaining form factor agnostic is key to the company’s mission of providing hyper-nutritious food to as large a consumer base as possible, which it achieves through both vertical farms and greenhouses.
Image from: Sensei Ag
“We believe that the most robust data comes from operating farms of multiple types. So, not just vertical farms, but also low-tech and high-tech greenhouses. And with vertical farms, we are looking at a number of form factors. Our end goal is to be a grower’s resource and know more about growing at scale with different form factors than anyone else.”
The company is also a strong advocate for open data in the vertical farming industry, which is currently lacking, as evidenced by the siloed development of multiple systems and products, some of which cannot be easily integrated into third-party systems.
“There are lots of data flows and increasingly inexpensive farm management systems. The question, then, is the organization of data into intelligence. Intelligence facilitates autonomy, and as we manage data flows, more farms can become autonomous. But I don’t think autonomy will happen until we start sharing data. For example, we saw an automation supplier with a great robot.
The problem was the robot only works in their ecosystem, so you have to buy the whole farming solution in order for the one robot to work. Ideally, that robot would be plug and play and be able to work in greenhouses and vertical farms,” says Sonia.
Image from: Sensei Ag
According to Sonia, open data in the vertical farming industry may currently be restricted by the dominance of venture financing, which has its own return mandates to fulfill and sometimes wants a “winner takes it all” mentality for the ventures it chooses to back. While such financing has allowed the vertical farming industry to emerge, it may ultimately hinder the industry’s scalability and information sharing.
“There is definitely a capital model in Silicon Valley and in venture capital world in general which is not focused on profitability but is focused on technological achievement and market penetration. We saw this in solar and in the renewables industry when multiple venture capital funds invested in solar assets. Then, the bottom fell out because government subsidies fell away in certain jurisdictions.
I hope that agricultural infrastructure currently financed by venture capital will not necessarily follow the same pathway as solar, but will instead find a public-private partnership model. At some point, these farms need to demonstrate a profit for the debt capital markets to allow scale to occur.”
Image from: Sensei Ag
By embracing open data and transparency, Sonia explains that the vertical farming industry can further mature and iterate with technology to continue lowering costs. By continuously collecting and sharing data from different farm forms, the vertical farming industry would have better insights into the true costs which, according to Sonia, “helps drive scale because it enables the finance community to understand how the farms can be risk assessed and financed.”
Looking ahead, Sensei Ag hopes to form partnerships around the world to bring its innovative, data-driven growing systems across the globe. Taking the Middle East, China and Japan as examples, Sonia explained that the goal would be to choose strategic partners in each region whose local knowledge and business prowess would allow Sensei Ag to iterate its technologies appropriately and serve local markets, bringing cost-competitive farming techniques and nutritious, local produce around the world.
Getting eXcited For Xchange? Register Today!
“This event showcases where food is going in the future.” -Neshann C., sponsor, Xchange 2018 | New York, NY
Keynote Address: The Role of Carbon Markets in Advancing
Regenerative Agriculture
Announcing Our final Keynote Speaker
Katie Sullivan serves as Managing Director of IETA, the global multi-sector business voice for the intersection of markets and climate change. Katie currently sits on the Global Steering Committee for the World Bank’s Carbon Pricing Leadership Coalition (CPLC), Boards of the Climate Action Reserve (CAR) and the International CCS Knowledge Centre, and numerous Advisory Panels.
In 2019, Katie Sullivan was recognized as a Clean16 and Clean50 award recipient for contributing to Clean Capitalism Leadership in Canada.
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Very inspiring - because usually all of these organizations are working separately.” - Patricia G., Xchange 2018 | Santiago, Chile
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Indoor Ag-Con Co-Locating With NGA Show in 2021 - The Event Will Be Held In Las Vegas At The Caesars Forum Convention Center
By co-locating with Indoor Ag-Con, we bring our attendees a new resource to meet consumer demand for transparent food sourcing, delivering just-picked produce year-round and, for those on the cutting edge, access to in-store growing operational resources
November 26, 2020
Posted by Chris Manning
The NGA Show, a trade show and conference for independent grocers, and Indoor Ag-Con, a agriculture conference, and trade show for the indoor and vertical farming industry, announced that they will co-locate in 2021 for the first time. The combined event will be held May 16-18, 2021, at the new Caesars Forum Convention Center in Las Vegas.
“The NGA Show, entering its 38th year, has established itself as the world’s premier educational and supplier resource serving the independent grocer community,” said Courtney Muller, chief corporate development and strategy officer with Clarion Events North America. “By co-locating with Indoor Ag-Con, we bring our attendees a new resource to meet consumer demand for transparent food sourcing, delivering just-picked produce year-round and, for those on the cutting edge, access to in-store growing operational resources. Ultimately, that means additional value for all of our customers and the industries overall.”
Indoor Ag-Con, launched in 2013, provides exhibitors and attendees with the latest technology and business strategies for growing crops in indoor systems, using hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponics techniques, bringing together growers, investors, chefs, produce buyers, academics, policymakers, industry suppliers and advocates.
“Indoor farming is an important segment that’s been on the rise for several years,” said Brian Sullivan, co-owner of Indoor Ag-Con. “The great energy and audience The NGA Show has cultivated will be key to our combined success as we work together to better serve our industries. We look forward to welcoming The NGA Show visitors and exhibitors, and we can’t wait for a successful show.”
“This is an exciting opportunity and what’s bound to be a successful industry-first event that delivers much more value to our members, customers, partners, and the markets we serve,” added Greg Ferrara, president, and CEO of the National Grocers Association.
The NGA Show and Indoor Ag-Con visitors will have access to all exhibits, and discounts will be available for cross-over educational event attendance.
For more information, click here.
Health protocols for the event can be found here.
Tags: Retail Grocery Ag-tech Events Technology Blockchain Technology
Produce events Indoor farming events
LIVE WEBINAR - The Value of Farming In The Fight To End Homelessness - Thursday, April 30th, 2020
The Value of Farming In The Fight To End Homelessness. Featuring Lotus House in Miami, FL
The Value of Farming In the Fight to End Homelessness
Hear how Lotus House in Miami brought a container farm to their community
11:00 - 11:45 AM EST
To Register, Please Click Here
United Fresh Talks Produce Trends, Opportunities For Indoor Growers
Each week we're adding new companies to our growing show floor. Among our most recent additions are Ceres Greenhouse Solutions and Percival Scientific
Don't Miss United Fresh Produce Association Panel Discussion With
Walmart, BrightFarms, DNO Produce!
PRODUCE TRENDS & BUSINESS GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDOOR GROWERS
Indoor Ag-Con is pleased to announce that the United Fresh Produce Association will host a panel presentation during our May edition on Monday, May 18 from 10-10:45 am. During this insightful and idea-packed session, United Fresh President and CEO Tom Stenzel (pictured top left), will share some of the association's latest produce trend research findings. He'll also moderate a top-notch panel, including (clockwise) Paul Lightfoot, CEO, BrightFarms; Victor Verlage, Senior Director of Agricultural Strategy, Walmart, Inc; and Alex DiNovo, CEO, DNO Produce, as they share business opportunities they see with indoor growers. You won't want to miss this one! Learn more about this program and the growing line-up for the May 18-20, 2020 edition.
CHECK OUT GROWING CONFERENCE SCHEDULE ›
WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MAY '20 EXHIBITORS
Each week we're adding new companies to our growing show floor. Among our most recent additions are Ceres Greenhouse Solutions and Percival Scientific.
Learn more about these innovative companies, and many others who will be showcasing their latest introductions and solutions for your indoor growing needs!
SEE WHO'S EXHIBITING >
INDOOR AG-CON EXHIBITOR NEWS: JIFFY OFFERS SUSTAINABLE NETTING SOLUTION Reducing the use of plastic in packaging and production purposes is an important global issue. As Jiffy points out in their latest news alert, plastic does not belong in nature and it should not be in the process of cultivation. This is why Jiffy aims for lowering the use of plastics for their growing media. Just recently Jiffy decided to switch from PE and PP plastics to PLA netting for all Jiffy Grow Blocks and Jiffy Pellets. See them in booth 3001 in May and read their full announcement here!
LEARN MORE ›
Indoor Ag-Con has secured discounted hotel rates at Treasure Island -- an easy walk from the show site at the Wynn. It's going to be a busy week in Vegas so we encourage you to book early for the best rates! Book online or call the hotel direct at 888.503.8999 and reference discount code AGCON20
RESERVE HOTEL & SAVE›
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR GROWING ROSTER OF
SPONSORS, MEDIA ALLIES & INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Indoor Ag-Con Las Vegas Announces Dates, Location For 2020 Edition
"Whether industry members are just starting out, scaling up, buying from or selling to indoor vertical farms, our 2020 edition’s enhanced programming and new show floor features will offer even more opportunities to connect all agriculture supply chain stakeholders,” says Nancy Hallberg, co-owner of Indoor Ag-Con LLC along with other event industry veterans Brian Sullivan and Kris Sieradzki.
Indoor Ag-Con Heads To Wynn Las Vegas
For May 18-20, 2020 Edition
8th Annual Edition Heads To Wynn Las Vegas, May 18-20, 2020, With Expanded Show Floor, Educational Offerings, Networking Events For Indoor the Vertical Farm Industry
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, UNITED STATES, September 4, 2019, Indoor Ag-Con, the premier event covering the technology of growing crops in indoor systems using hydroponic, aeroponic and aquaponic techniques, heads to Wynn Las Vegas from May 18-20, 2020 for its 8th annual edition in Las Vegas, NV. From an expanded exhibition floor, new educational tracks and networking events to other new show features and displays, the 2020 edition will be a showplace for robotics, automation, AI, breaking technology trends and product innovation.
"Whether industry members are just starting out, scaling up, buying from or selling to indoor|vertical farms, our 2020 edition’s enhanced programming and new show floor features will offer even more opportunities to connect all agriculture supply chain stakeholders,” says Nancy Hallberg, co-owner of Indoor Ag-Con LLC along with other event industry veterans Brian Sullivan and Kris Sieradzki.
2020 Show highlights include:
NEW LOCATION: WYNN LAS VEGAS
To deliver a top-quality meeting experience for its attendees, Indoor Ag-Con heads to Wynn Las Vegas for 2020. Wynn Resorts is the recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world and was once again named the best resort in Nevada on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2019 “Gold List,” a title received for the 12th time.
THREE IN-DEPTH EDUCATIONAL TRACKS - BUSINESS, SCIENCE, CANNABIS - HEMP
In direct response to feedback from 2019 attendees, show management will be zeroing in on three core tracks for 2020 --- Business, Science and Cannabis | Hemp. The 2020 Conference will bring together 40+ industry-leading speakers to cover timely issues; growth and development strategies for all levels and types of indoor farming businesses; latest developments and innovations through keynote presentations, sessions and panel discussions in each of the 3 areas.
EXPANDED EXHIBIT FLOOR & NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
An expanded exhibition floor will showcase the latest innovations including some of the biggest names in the industry and emerging leaders across all sectors, including business/financial services, industry associations, government agencies, and manufacturers/suppliers.
Exhibitors will include business services; chemical pumps; climate control systems; complete indoor growing systems; equipment & accessories; financial services; fertilizers; government agencies; greenhouses; growing products; heating systems; hydroponic pots; insurance providers; irrigation equipment; IT solutions lighting solutions; nutrient products; propagation systems; substrates; tools; vertical farming solutions and much more.
Attendees will also have even more networking opportunities with daily continental breakfast, coffee break and luncheon sessions, evening receptions, round tables and more.
QUICK FACTS:
WHEN: Monday, May 18 – Wednesday, May 20, 2020 (Exhibits Open May 18-19)
WHERE: Wynn Las Vegas, 3131 Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89101
INFO: For information on exhibiting or attending visit www.indoor.ag or email hello@indoor.ag
ABOUT INDOOR AG-CON LLC
Founded in 2013, Indoor Ag-Con has grown into the premier event in indoor agriculture, the practice of growing crops in indoor systems, using hydroponic, aquaponic and aeroponic techniques. Its events in Las Vegas and Singapore are tech-focused and crop-agnostic, covering produce, legal cannabis |hemp, alternate protein, and non-food crops. In December 2018, three event industry professionals – Nancy Hallberg, Kris Sieradzki and Brian Sullivan – purchased Indoor Ag-Con LLC from Newbean Capital, so setting the stage for further expansion of the events globally.
Exploring The Impact And Future of Indoor Ag-Con Las Vegas
A great way to introduce my experiences at Indoor Ag-Con Las Vegas 7 is to highlight important themes highlighted by industry leaders Brad McNamara of Freight Farms, Irving Fain of Bowery, and Viraj PuriI of Gotham Greens
By urbanagnews
June 10, 2019
By guest author Rick Passo
I have been with this Conference from the very start: learning, collaborating, networking and doing my utmost to create global recognition for how Las Vegas can lead the world in food policy, food innovation, food technology and food justice. I am interested especially in food and horticultural therapy for special needs populations including the severely mentally ill and those with traumatic brain disorders, which is my main interest in the controlled environment agriculture sector.
Having experienced every Indoor Ag-Con Conference here in Las Vegas, my perspective is molded by following the progression and growth and diversification of this emergent sector for seven years.
There were multiple, specialized tracks of speakers including GROW EQUIPMENT TRACK, CROP SELECTION TRACK, CUSTOMERS & THE SUPPLY CHAIN, BUSINESS TRACK, and POLICY & SOCIETAL IMPACT. There also were dozens of vendors who represented a wide range of products and controlled environment agriculture vendors and related suppliers, as well as multiple opportunities for networking, learning and exploring.
A great way to introduce my experiences at Indoor Ag-Con Las Vegas 7 is to highlight important themes highlighted by industry leaders Brad McNamara of Freight Farms, Irving Fain of Bowery, and Viraj PuriI of Gotham Greens.
In his keynote, Brad McNamara, CEO and co-founder of Freight Farms, emphasized how the oldest GenZer is 22 years old, is trading wealth for health, is interested in doing good while eating well and is focused on improving sustainability and in promoting local and transparent food systems: which he emphasized is a fundamental shift in the food business. He also detailed an evolving new generation of urban farmers who are motivated, trained and focused to meet these new food standards – requiring a transition in university agriculture programs and training.
He also discussed a growing global network of farms, collaborating and learning from each other regarding subjects like best practices, marketing, what to grow, seed material, light, food safety and nutrients. Additionally, they discuss farmer failures and farm dynamics (such as optimizing air flow problems and optimizing shelf space).
After his keynote, Brad and I discussed how his network rescues and repurposes obsolete growing containers as well as STEM training for the local cooperative extension and local K through 12 school system. These subjects will be discussed in more detail in a separate article.
Irving Fain of Bowery’s keynote focused on innovation profiles and related case studies which he described as being relevant to the future of urban controlled environment agriculture, both in terms of marketing and of science, emphasizing how this emergent sector is just in its infancy and how it can benefit from learning how other global businesses spawned from their innovations. For example, he described how NetFlix evolved from a basic delivery service to a content provider and a value chain itself, propelled in growing by rapidly improving infrastructure and technology. He also highlighted how Uber had only 3 cars when it launched but he described how, through continuous innovation and network expansion, Uber had transformed from a simple concierge limousine service into a comprehensive global transportation and delivery service. Additionally, he discussed the evolution of Amazon via continuous consumer benefits, loyalty via Amazon Prime and via increasingly sophisticated fulfillment centers – and how they cumulatively have led to Amazon’s ascension deeper into the value chain of global customer needs.
Irving Fain in particular emphasized how national grocers demand more local produce than ever before and that a large portion of grocery purchases in the future will be grown indoors.
Unfortunately, due to an unavoidable conflict, I missed the keynote of Viraj Puri of Gotham Greens but I have been privileged to hear him speak previously, including at last year’s Indoor Ag-Con Las Vegas. He is a true industry rockstar and I am especially impressed by his outreach to the broader community and by the generosity of his time and expertise to wonderful institutions such as Stephen Ritz’ Green Bronx Machine. Click here for inspiring information on this innovative corporate-academic partnership
Gotham Greens has built and operates over 170,000 square feet of technologically advanced, urban rooftop greenhouses across 4 facilities in New York City and Chicago.
Below are some other presentations and topics that caught my attention and which I will be exploring and expanding upon in the future. There were so many tracks and so many speakers and so many vendors that I could only scratch the surface of everything that was offered at this Conference. Equally important, and perhaps most important, was the willingness and eagerness of the new Conference owners to receive constructive feedback and suggestions for how to grow this important conference in the future. The worlds of food science, food policy, food marketing, food education, food technology, food logistics, food justice are constantly evolving and growing in new and exciting ways. So too has and will the Indoor Ag-Con Conference – both here in Las Vegas and globally.
BLOCKCHAIN AND LEDGER TECHNOLOGY FOR THE FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN
Speaker: Raja Ramachandran, CEO and Co-Founder, ripe.io
Raja Ramachandran discussed regulatory compliance, traceability, food safety via usage of blockchain and ledger technology for more sustainable and healthier food business – resulting in increased efficiency, trust and social impact via digital records. He discussed how complex supply chains for a manufacturer or consumer products company can integrate internal and external supply chains on one digital ledger. And how dual supply and buyer managements can be networked. He presented how ripe.io creates digital Food Bundles to map the food journey that engenders transparency, trust, and honesty for food producers, distributors, and consumers.
After his presentation, Raja and I discussed how his blockchain and ledger technology might work in the entrepreneurial ecosystem being created here in Las Vegas on behalf of the United States Air Force. I hope to explore this topic in the future.
CO-CREATING THE FUTURE OF INDOOR AG; LESSONS FROM SINGAPORE, TAIWAN & JAPAN
Speaker: Jacob Eisenberg, product manager, OnePointOne Farms
Jake Eisenberg is Product Manager at OnePointOne Farms Santa Clara, California. Prior to joining, Jake spent extended time in Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan as a freelance researcher examining the industry and market development among Asian Plant Factories and indoor growing facilities.
Jacob Eisenberg discussed his creation of a toolkit which validates commercial ideas and production models, and lowering barriers of entry for new farms and technology via:
Pilot Matchmakers,
Collective Researchers,
R&D Partners
Tech Matchmakers
Hubs
Local for local Advocates which spread the ideal of competitive cooperation
Jacob writes regularly on this topic at https://medium.com/agri-futures
After his session I discussed with Jacob about important agricultural hubs and connections in the Philippines such as https://agrea.publishpath.com and http://www.gk1world.com/home which are global forces for economic change and nation building via Agriculture. They were related resources for a number of other speakers especially in exploring the future societal impact of indoor agriculture globally
UNLOCKING AGRICULTURE INNOVATION THROUGH UNCOMMON COLLABORATION WITH UC ANR
Speaker: Gabriel Youtsey, Chief Innovation Officer, UC Agriculture & Natural Resources
Gabriel (Gabe) Youtsey serves as the Chief Innovation Officer for UC Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR). He is leading the California VINE initiative, which) brings the power of science to deliver practical solutions in California by addressing major challenges such as fire, water shortages, safe food, urban pests, college readiness and poor nutrition. (“VINE will connect existing clusters of innovation across California and link entrepreneurs with mentors, advisors, collaborators, events, competitions, education and other services to turn good ideas into products and services people can use.”)
Professor Youtsey highlighted on unsustainable current agricultural practices in California area in terms of issues related to workforce, cost compliance, water, land economics, climate change and biodiversity, food safety, consumer preferences and international trade. He emphasized how ag tech is advancing globally in areas like robotic harvesting, robotic weeding, drones, LED lighting, better genetics and evolving business models. He emphasized the need for uncommon collaboration, globally.
I was very impressed by the breath and extent and diversity of the entities which are being coordinated and collaborated by UC ANR but I see the potential for much broader policy discussions especially with entities such as the Resnick School for Food Law & Policy, with the Los Angeles Food Policy Council, and global best practices such as the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact.
THE SOCIETAL IMPACT OF INDOOR VERTICAL FARMING
Speaker: Brian Lanes, Industry Consultant
Building on the societal and policy themes on the increasing importance of this sector was the presentation by industry consultant Brian Lanes. His extensive resume is aptly summarized here. Here are some highlights:
“Brian Lanes is an opportunity scout and catalyst with 40+ years of consulting and business development experience. Brian works with early movers, innovative thinkers, and intrepid leaders who seek to devote their resources to tackling some of the core problems facing us today.
Brian co-founded Wintergreen Partners in 1991, developing strategic alliances and a global network of people and their companies to best serve common areas of interest. The primary areas of focus of Wintergreen include food-energy-water; health care-med/tech and areas where social capital influence global change.”
Brian Lanes’ presentation focused on the impact of vertical farming in the Third World, specifically in war-torn Monrovia, Liberia from a “design-thinking” point of view in “repositioning” energy policy and thinking, and building upon his long time experience with the Stanford Plant Lab studies, https://dschool.stanford.edu/classes/feed-lab-food-system-design-innovation
He emphasized that especially in Liberia the key factor was the role of women in culture in response to challenges such as an inconsistent and highly intermittent energy grid, urbanization and job training needs. He also related successes such as scaling his programs to 70 cities across the Sub Saharan Africa. At its core, Brian Lanes stressed that his mission and vision globally is that a Healthy Community is a Human Right, globally.
Personally as a Returned U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, I was encouraged and delighted that Brian Lane stated that an influential advisor for this and Wintergreen Partners’ global team also is a former U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, And after his session, Mr. Lane and I discussed a variety of international collaborators for his important work including some of my links in the Philippines which I already have highlighted like Agrea and Gawad Kalinga. I also mentioned the National Peace Corps Association https://www.peacecorpsconnect.org/cpages/home which connects the approximate 230,000 Returned Peace Corps Volunteers.
I was very excited to meet with Brian Lane and to learn about how he and his team of visionaries are making the future of food globally one of increasing food justice. And to explore further how I might make some rippling impacts on his collective efforts.
Conclusion
In this overview, I can only give a glimpse of what I experienced and learned and networked and seeded at Indoor Ag-Con Las Vegas 7. And I left out a number of equally compelling and important and impactful encounters and topics and threads that I intend to explore in much greater detail in the near future.
Overall, it was a very rewarding and inspiring and enlightening gathering and it truly proved to be a bridge for a slew of opportunities and collaborations in the future that will impact our World’s Food Future in empowering and important ways, especially in terms of sustainability and food justice.
About the author: Rick Passo is a social activist passionate about moving Las Vegas to the front of the of the global food movement while at the same time fighting for the creation of food hubs, incubators, urban agriculture, ecoTherapy, community gardens, food insecurity and food justice via empowering, training & employing vulnerable populations, especially those with mental and physical disabilities.
Connecting Technology & Business To Create Healthier Urban Food Systems
Mission Statement
The Indoor AgTech Innovation Summit will focus on building and investing in more sustainable, profitable and healthy food systems and the role that vertical and indoor agriculture can have in serving the cities of tomorrow.
The Summit will share best practice from around the world and uncover breakthroughs in energy efficiency, AI, automation, lighting, environmental control and yield improvements are set to transform these systems in the future.
Bringing together a unique mix of operators, food producers, technology developers, plant scientists, food buyers, retailers, financiers, utility operators and city planners, the Summit will explore the innovation, business models and partnerships that are needed to scale this emerging industry.
Key Themes
Nutrition and Food Security in the City: The Role of Indoor Farming in the Future Food System
The Power of Restaurants & Retail in Creating Demand for Healthy, Fresh Produce
Streamlining Access to Capital and Partnerships for Growth
What Success is Asia Having in Taking Indoor Farming to an Industrial Scale?
Food Safety and Labelling: The Collective Benefits of Greater Standardization
From Pilot to Mainstream: A.I., Automation and Systems Design to Transform Horticulture
What will it take for Strawberries to be the Next Big Crop?
Capturing Market Value Through Better Breeding, Genetics and Lighting
Industrial Partnerships to Drive Efficiency and Economic Viability
https://indooragtechnyc.com/
Location
New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge
333 Adams Street Brooklyn, New York 11201 USA
Registration
One Summit Pass: Indoor AgTech
Delegate Registration: $1695
Two Summit Pass: Indoor AgTech and Future Food-Tech
Delegate Registration: $2295
https://indooragtechnyc.com/register/
Focused on the role of vertical and indoor farming in local, regional and national food systems, and new opportunities for investment and collaboration - the summit will connect 300 international operators and food producers with technology entrepreneurs and food retailers, financiers and city planners.
We are delighted to share with you the full program for the Indoor AgTech Innovation Summit, taking place in New York on June 19-20.
Download now to discover who's speaking, session topics and how to join.
Focused on the role of vertical and indoor farming in local, regional and national food systems, and new opportunities for investment and collaboration - the summit will connect 300 international operators and food producers with technology entrepreneurs and food retailers, financiers and city planners.
Here's a snapshot of our exciting thought leaders:
Matt Roy, Senior Director, Produce, US FOODS
Sonia Lo, CEO, CROP ONE HOLDINGS
David Rosenberg, CEO & Co-Founder, AEROFARMS
Victor Verlage, Senior Director, Resilient Sourcing, WALMART
"The Indoor AgTech Innovation Summit was my one-stop-shop where business, science and technology converged in the most effective manner. The event was put together impressively well, enabling attendees to interact and build lasting relationships. It’s an A+ from me!"
CEO, ELO LIFE SYSTEMS
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN
We look forward to welcoming you to the summit this June.
With thanks to our Partners:
Who is Coming
Platinum Partner:
Gold Partners:
Silver Partners:
Marketing & Media Partners:
Co-located with:
Part of:
Hosted by:
Meet the Disruptors at the Indoor AgTech Innovation Summit in New York
Seven dynamic international agtech start-ups will be taking the spotlight at the Indoor AgTech Innovation Summit in New York, (June 19-20), seeking investment opportunities and corporate connections to scale up innovative solutions including machine learning algorithms, A.I., hydroponics technology and indoor farming production.
The summit’s Technology Showcase session will feature a selection of exciting entrepreneurs as they pitch to an audience of 300 indoor operators, food producers, technology developers, investors and retailers from around the world. The TechHub is a dedicated space for start-ups to showcase their breakthrough solutions up close within the exhibition and networking area.
Featured start-ups include:
La Grangette (France): produces fresh, organic and locally grown food that is better for consumers and the environment. With La Grangette the consumer can grow their own vegetables easily at home throughout the year with its autonomous kitchen garden.
Computomics (Germany): unlocks the diversity of biological life to enable data-driven decisions and accelerate sustainable agricultural development using multi-omics datasets. Computomics helps agricultural biotech, breeding and indoor farming companies to unlock genotype-phenotype relationships.
Root AI (USA): is on a mission to create intelligent robots that help growers build the farms of the future. The start-up has introduced its first agricultural robot, dubbed the Virgo 1, which can pick tomatoes without bruising them and detect ripeness better than humans.
Lettuce Lads (Canada): is increasing access to locally grown, quality food through innovation within hydroponics technology. Lettuce Lads will empower farmers to grow more with less, providing year-round access to local food for everyone. The company will build an operational prototype of their design in the Bow Valley this summer.
Grow Computer (USA): is the first of its kind operating system for any indoor agriculture farm or grow. Through its smart, IoT platform ‘GrowOS’ it gives indoor and hydroponic growers advanced monitoring, controls, data tracking and sharing right from a computer or smartphone.
Babylon (USA): has created automated, scalable hydroponic systems that make it simple and cost-effective to grow premium quality ingredients onsite and on demand.
Sustainable Indoor Growing System - SIGS (USA): is designed to produce large numbers of affordable, higher quality grafted vegetable transplants, with fewer resources such as water, fertilizer and pesticides.
The summit will welcome international indoor farm operators, their supply chain and retail/food service clients from across the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Asia including 80 Acres Farms, Autogrow, AeroFarms, BrightFarms, Bowery Farming, Driscoll’s, Gotham Greens, Fluence by Osram, Ikea, InFarm, International Space Station National Laboratory, MIT Media Lab, Samsung Electronics LED Business, Shenandoah Growers, S2G Ventures, Smallhold, Temple Court, Wells Fargo, Wendy’s, Whole Foods Market, USDA and US Foods.
Co-located with the Future Food-Tech Summit (June 18-19), the Indoor AgTech Innovation Summit is part of the Rethink Agri-Food Innovation Series hosted by Rethink Events, focused on international networking and deal-making for food and agribusinesses, solution providers, entrepreneurs and investors.
For more information about the event program, speakers and delegate
registration, visit www.indooragtechnyc.com
Indoor Ag-Con Announces Full Conference Schedule For May 22-24, 2019 Las Vegas Edition
Keynote From Bowery’s Irving Fain
Kicks Off Comprehensive Schedule
LAS VEGAS (April 1, 2019) – Indoor Ag-Con, the premier event covering the technology of growing crops in indoor systems, using hydroponic, aeroponic and aquaponic techniques, has announced the full conference schedule for the 7th annual edition, May 22-24, 2019, at Red Rock Resort, Las Vegas, NV. Featuring 50+ sessions, panel discussions and keynotes, the comprehensive line-up spans five tracks: Grow Equipment, Crop Selection, Customers & The Supply Chain, Business, Policy & Societal Impact.
The full conference schedule is available at https://indoor.ag/lasvegas/las-vegas-2019-schedule-sessions/
“We built our conference sessions around the show’s theme, ‘Growing The Future,’” explained Jim Pantaleo, Conference Chairman, Indoor Ag-Con. “From indoor farm success stories to the latest innovations in artificial intelligence, LED lighting and control systems, to the impacts of the farm bill, we’ve gathered a full roster of industry experts to address today’s most pressing topics and issues.”
On opening day, Wednesday, May 22, 2019, Irving Fain, co-founder and CEO of Bowery, the modern farming company growing food for a better future by revolutionizing agriculture, kicks off the conference with a presentation from 9:15 – 9:55 am.
Bowery’s large scale commercial indoor farms combine the benefits of the best local farms with advances made possible by technology to grow food for a better future.
Since launching publicly in early 2017, Bowery has secured over $122.5M in funding, and expanded distribution of 8 product SKUs to retailers like Whole Foods, Foragers, Peapod, and various restaurants and fast-casuals in the Tristate area.
In addition to the keynotes, attendees can chose from an expansive line-up of sessions and panel discussions led by top industry executives and thought leaders from some of the biggest names and up-and-coming innovators in the indoor ag space.
Among them: Suncrest USA, AeroFarms, Signify, Shenandoah Farms, MVP Farms, Fluence Bioengineering, Farmbox Greens, Urban Crop Solutions, Sananbio, Vertial Harvest, TapRoot holdings, Pulse Labs Smallhold, Germains Seed Technology, MVP Farms, Argus Controls, AgEye Technologies, HSG-AME Certified Laboratories and many others.
The hemp and cannabis sectors are also well represented within the 2019 programming, with sessions like Hemp and the Farm Bill, Hemp|Cannabis Genetics Landscape, HVAC and Accounting For Cannabis Grows and others.
Indoor Ag-Con welcomes a number of other features in addition to the comprehensive educational conference, including an exhibition floor filled the vendors showcasing the latest in everything from equipment to climate control systems. Networking opportunities are also an integral part of the event, including receptions on May 22 and 23, continental breakfast and lunch gatherings daily. Other programs include extended networking breaks between conference sessions.
The 2019 edition will also see the hard release of a new white paper from Contain Inc., an alternate finance provider to indoor growers, entitled “ Automation, AI and the Next Generation Of Indoor Agriculture.” Each attendee will receive a copy with their welcome gift bag.
ABOUT INDOOR AG-CON LLC
Founded in 2013, Indoor Ag-Con has grown into the premier event in indoor agriculture, the practice of growing crops, raising fish and insects in indoor systems, using hydroponic, aquaponic and aeroponic techniques.
Its events are tech-focused and crop-agnostic, covering produce, legal cannabis, alternate protein and non-food crops.
It hosts events in Las Vegas, Singapore and the US East coast.
In December 2018, three event industry professionals – Nancy Hallberg, Kris Sieradzki and Brian Sullivan – purchased Indoor Ag-Con LLC from Newbean Capital, so setting the stage for further expansion of the events globally.
More information: https://indoor.ag
AVF Speaker Announcement: Unlocking The Potential of Indoor Farming In Cities of the Future
AVF Speaker Announcement
22-23 May in Oslo, Norway @ Urban Future Global Conference
We are excited to announce the first round of confirmed speakers for our conference entitled: Unlocking the Potential of Indoor Farming in Cities of the Future. Event details here: https://pretix.eu/associationverticalfarming/urban-future-2019/
This conference will be the only part of the wider Urban Future programme to focus on food production in the city.
Our first confirmed speakers are:
Dr. Joel Cuello, Professor of Biosystems Engineering and Director of the Global Initiative for Strategic Agriculture in Dry Lands (GISAD) at The University of Arizona.
Dr. Leo Marcelis, PhD., Head of chair group Horticulture and Product Physiology, Wageningen University
Josef Schmidhuber, Deputy Director, Trade and Markets Division, FAO
The AVF will run two half-day sessions, which will include:
Keynote speeches from industry experts
Roundtable discussions on the industry and society's most pressing topics
Guided workshops to create realistic strategies for the industry's future
We will connect cities and industry to create solutions for food in the city.
Your ticket also includes:
Access to the conference venue on May 22 and May 23
Access to all sessions (except the Mayors Only sessions)
Access to the Green Business Village
Food and beverages at the conference venue
Participation in field trips on May 24
Access to the event app
Access to speakers presentations
Get your Early Bird Ticket now! This is the lowest price you will find anywhere for this event.
We look forward to seeing you in Oslo! Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at re@vertical-farming.net.
Sincerely,
The AVF Team
Fresh Produce Needs Even More SXSW Representation
It’s good that produce industry leaders participating in the Center for Growing Talent’s Executive Leadership Experience were here to hear, first hand, how one panel — in a massive ballroom simulcast online – basically threw Salinas, CA, and the fresh produce industry, under the bus
Panelists (from left) Matt Barnard of Plenty, Daphne Miller, MD, Chef Dominique Crenn and author Mark Bittman talked about localizing food to restore human health at SXSW in Austin.
March 14, 2019
AUSTIN, TX—As someone who has lived in the Austin area full time for nearly two decades, I’ve treated the annual South by Southwest conference with a local’s disdain and avoidance.
The traffic. The crowds. The people.
But I can’t avoid it anymore. Produce must be part of the conversation. I can’t imagine how representatives from the Produce Marketing Association felt the first time they went to the event and listened to what people have to say about our industry.
It’s not that we don’t hear criticism and misinformation about the produce industry – often, from a lot of different viewpoints – but it must be incredibly frustrating to hear it from a conference that’s all about the global discussion of the future of … pretty much everything.
It’s good that produce industry leaders participating in the Center for Growing Talent’s Executive Leadership Experience were here to hear, first hand, how one panel — in a massive ballroom simulcast online – basically threw Salinas, CA, and the fresh produce industry, under the bus.
The session, “Localizing Food to Restore Human Health,” dragged “industrial” agriculture in favor of vertical farms and growing in urban gardens on vacant land.
Matt Barnard, co-founder and CEO of Plenty, a San Francisco-based vertical farming operation, said he talked with “one of the largest growers in the Salinas Valley of California,” about the business:
“He said to me that we can’t imagine a world where demand drives supply. We don’t have the option. We have data from consumers that tells us we shouldn’t even be growing iceberg lettuce, and yet it is the largest cash crop in fruits and vegetables in the United States of America because it’s a tank in the field. It withstands whatever the environment throws at it…it has no flavor, no nutrition and that’s the thing that gives us certainty in an uncertain production environment.”
Barnard said the grower told him the data shows “people like things like radicchio and arugula,” but that growers can’t produce it because it’s too difficult in the field.
The problem with this?
It’s not sure whether the argument is right or wrong – whether iceberg really is the biggest cash crop in the U.S., or whether consumers would rather have radicchio (something I highly doubt, personally), it’s that this guy is telling the whole produce story, on the international stage.
I was glad to see that PMA put together a panel on how we need to do more to increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s a start, but there’s so much more opportunity, even beyond what happens here in Austin at SXSW.
We all need to push our way out of our comfortable produce community and join the broader discussions where they are happening.
Tagged analysis, produce marketing association, produce with pamela
Pamela Riemenschneider is the Retail Editor for Blue Book Services.
Association for Vertical Farming (AVF) Announces Partnership With Urban Future Global Conference
AVF brings indoor farming forum to Europe’s largest conference on sustainable cities
After successful annual conferences in Beijing, Amsterdam and Washington, D.C., the AVF is excited to host the 2019 edition at Oslo’s Urban Future Global Conference on May 22-23. The AVF and Urban Future look forward to welcoming entrepreneurs, companies, technologists, growers, city planners, research institutions, governmental bodies and enthusiasts from all over the globe to Oslo, the 2019 European Green Capital.
Adding to Urban Future’s already extensive audience, the AVF will host a gathering of over 200 experts to discuss developments and propose solutions for the future of indoor and vertical farming. The AVF will facilitate keynote speeches, roundtable discussions and workshops over two half-day time slots. This conference-within-a-conference will touch on all of Urban Future’s main thematic areas but will be the only forum to specifically focus on food production.
Entitled “Unlocking the Potential of Indoor Farming in Cities of the Future,” this conference will give citizens and stakeholders alike unparalleled access to the most pressing topics in the indoor farming industry.
Keynote speakers include:
Dr. Joel Cuello, Professor of Biosystems Engineering and Director of the Global Initiative for Strategic Agriculture in Dry Lands (GISAD) at The University of Arizona.
Dr. Leo Marcelis, PhD., Head of Chair Group Horticulture and Product Physiology, Wageningen University
Josef Schmidhuber, Deputy Director, Trade and Markets Division, FAO
Gertjan Meeuws, Co-Founder, Seven Steps to Heaven
More speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.
Workshop Sessions
Establishing High-Tech Urban Food Systems in Cities of the Future
How can cities keep pace with the rapidly-evolving value chain
The next decade will bring rapid change in the technologies and techniques used to grow food in cities. How can businesses and entrepreneurs keep pace with this level of innovation? Join us in guided workshops to learn how to manage this influx of new technologies and apply them successfully to drive down costs, integrate renewable energy, and improve citizens’ access to healthy, sustainably-produced food.
Topics:
A. Can Blockchain technology advance the vertical farming industry? Moderator: Bernhard Hecker
B. Potential of renewable energy sources in the industry and energy efficiency in indoor farms. Moderator: Ramin Ebrahimnejad
C. Indoor/Vertical Farming Designs and Strategies. Moderator: Joel Cuello
Roundtable Discussion
The Science of Food Production in the City
Food and future cities -- growing food where the people live: what, why and how
Moderated panel discussion with public Q&A session.
Food production meets all of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals; accordingly, it also touches on all of Urban Future’s thematic areas. Why then is food production so often left out of city planning? This roundtable discussion will cover the importance of placing food at the centre of city planning, and the best ways to go about doing so. Hear unique industry perspectives on what is working and what needs to change, and then take the opportunity to ask questions in a 20-minute public Q&A session.
Event info and tickets are available here: https://pretix.eu/associationverticalfarming/urban-future-2019/
Student tickets are available at a reduced price of €220. Please contact kb@vertical-farming.net for a voucher code.
Please send any questions or special requests to info@vertical-farming.net
"Vertical Farming Needs A Consumer Label "
Brussels: First Workshop Hosted by FarmTech Society
On February 1st 2019, the FarmTech Society hosted its first workshop in Brussels titled ‘An energy efficient equation for indoor growing’.
FTS is an international non-profit association for the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) industry. CEO, business developers and consultants, in all 15 participants from the CEA industry (from 7 countries) joined. Besides the main topic on energy equations including a plenary session on building typology and energy environment, it also involved initial discussions regarding consumer labelling and defining the ‘indoor farming’ terminology.
Existing buildings can be a good choice for vertical farms
There is a clear synergy potential in energy management in existing or purpose-built structures. Climate capabilities of a building provide a good starting point for crop selection and business models. Based on a lifecycle analysis, it was shown that existing buildings with smart modifications can provide a cost effective and energy efficient solution for indoor farming in metropolitan areas.
Vertical Farming needs a consumer label
The end consumer perception of labels like eco, bio, or organic is emotional to a large extent. A strong case can be made for the advantages of indoor grown produce, and it makes sense to put an effort into this. After health, nutritional value and obviously price point, factors such as pesticides, energy and water consumption are important. A streamlined communication strategy is needed to avoid adding more labels to a heap of existing labels, perhaps new types of certification standards are required.
What is Controlled Environment Agriculture?
A need was identified to better define the term indoor farming or CEA. Outcome of the general discussion and group sessions was that main aspects to be included, were ‘year-round production’ and (no) ‘daylight use’ are major qualifiers. This is obviously not a final outcome; clear terminology is needed to clarify, on industry level and also for the consumer.
Energy: important to look at the broad picture
On a micro scale the energy and mass balance can be modelled at plant level. Improvements may be found via plant specific grow recipes by phenotyping combined with e.g. AI or machine learning. On a macro level the energy and mass balance describe a “plant factory” or a building type as a whole. Knowledge can be applied from the greenhouse industry, but also from very different applications e.g. data centres and district heating.
Recent development in decentralized micro-grid solutions, particularly as we see this recent development in the US, should be understood better. There appears also interesting potential for integrated uses of thermal waste energy into plant production combined with micro-grid solution of energy storage and buffer systems. A small task group from the workshop is going to focus on this area and report on this topic.
These outcomes for the basis for a few more events – the FTS team is looking forward to address these with current and future members. A solid kick-off, with much more in the pipeline.
For more information:
FarmTech Society
Place du Champs de Mars 5, 1050 Ixelles
+32 487 90 79 54
contact@farmtechsociety.org
farmtechsociety.org
Publication date : 2/15/2019
March 5th thru 7th, 2019 - Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE Learn About Vertical Farming, Greenhouses, Hydroponics And More
March 5th thru 7th, 2019
As an important aspect to increasing food security through the sustainable use of water and land, CEA includes Vertical Farming, Hydroponics, Greenhouses and more.
The CEA Conference will bring together leaders from across the world to discuss best practices, new innovations and increasing food security through entrepreneurship.
Register to visit
Controlled Environment Agriculture Conference
5th March 2019
Ensuring year-round local produce through controlled indoor farming
Damion Schwarzkachel, Consulting Engineer and Architect, Certhon
Food Security Through Entrepreneurship: Pathways towards Agriculture Independence in the GCC
Henry Gordon-Smith, Founder and Managing Director, Agritecture
Introducing the GravityFlow technology: A automated controlled environment plant production system
Per Aage Lysaa, CEO, Intravision Group AS
Digital Transformation challenges in Middle East's Agricultural & Food industry
Sage
Register to visit
AgraME Conference certified by:
Contact us to see how we can help you grow your business in the Middle East & Africa.
+971 4 336 5161 | info@agramiddleeast.com | www.agramiddleeast.com
Jan 15-16, 2019 Indoor Ag Con Asia Just Days Away!
All Registrants Receive IoT, Funding and Startup Positioning Papers
Meet VertiVegies At Indoor Ag-Con Asia
Be sure to stop by VertiVegies’ booth in the Singapore pavilion at Indoor Ag-Con Asia next week. The newest Indoor Ag-Con Asia sponsor, VertiVegies is a Singaporean Indoor Vertical Farming Company that was established with a simple objective – to empower consumers with the choice of eating healthy and safe food. It uses best in class technology to solve concerns around transparency, safety and security of the food your family consumes. Come chat with the team at Indoor Ag-Con Asia!
About VertiVegies ›
Download IoT, Funding and Startup Positioning Papers
For the first time at Indoor Ag-Con Asia, we’re trialing three unconferencing sessions where you can take your ideas and questions to debate and collaborate with fellow Indoor Ag-Con participants.
They cover topics from funding to IoT for indoor farms. We’ve prepared positioning papers for each session, and they are available to our Indoor Ag-Con Asia participants now so they can prep for the event next week.
Not registered yet? Online registration will be available through Monday at 12pm Singapore time, on-site registration from Tuesday morning onwards.
Register For Position Paper Access! ›
Meet One-To-One At Indoor Ag-Con Asia
We’re putting the final touches on our event app for Indoor Ag-Con Asia. Aside from housing plentiful information on our exhibitors, sponsors and speakers, it allows our participants to tee up one-to-one meetings at dedicated networking tables. The app is available only to Indoor Ag-Con Asia participants, there’s still time to join us by registering on our website
Register Today ›
Thank You to Our Sponsors & Allies!